This 28-day private driver-guided tour offers the most immersive and comprehensive exploration of Iceland possible. Designed for travelers who crave raw landscapes, local storytelling, and a true connection to nature, this Journey moves far beyond typical highlights into remote fjords, volcanic heartlands, fishing villages, and highland deserts. You’ll experience Iceland’s famous icons—but also its hidden valleys, untold histories, and personal encounters with its people and wild beauty.
Every day is paced for discovery with your expert guide handling the driving, timing, and insider access. From luxury soaks in remote hot springs to private hikes along black-sand canyons and glacial lagoons, this is a slow and rewarding grand tour of Iceland at its most breathtaking.
Destinations on Our 28-Day Ultimate Iceland Tour
Days 1–3: Reykjavík & Reykjanes Peninsula
Artistic neighborhoods, volcanic coastlines, geothermal wonders, and Blue Lagoon spa retreat.
Days 4–6: Snæfellsnes Peninsula
Sea cliffs, glacier drives, lava caves, and the legendary Kirkjufell mountain.
Days 7–10: Westfjords
Puffin cliffs, red sand beaches, hot spring rivers, remote fishing villages, and fjord safaris.
Days 11–13: North Iceland (Hvammstangi & Siglufjörður)
Seal watching, Arctic Circle adventures, whale safaris, historic herring towns, and local craft traditions.
Days 14–16: Mývatn & Húsavík
Lava fields, ice caves, geothermal landscapes, whale watching, and lakeside hot springs.
Days 17–20: Eastfjords
Artistic villages, fjord hikes, puffin colonies, abandoned farms, and hidden sculpture trails.
Days 21–25: South Coast & Vatnajökull
Glacial lagoons, black sand beaches, ice caves, rural culture, and dramatic volcanic plains.
Days 26–28: Highlands Retreat (Landmannalaugar/Hekla area)
Vibrant rhyolite mountains, natural geothermal bathing, Viking valley ruins, and crater lake reflections.
Base 1: Reykjavík – 3 Nights
Day 1: Airport Pickup, Lava Fields & Reykjavík Introduction
Your private driver-guide welcomes you at Keflavík Airport and whisks you away on a scenic drive across the Reykjanes Peninsula before arriving in Reykjavík.
After settling into your boutique hotel, set out for a private walking and driving tour of the capital’s colorful heart. Explore landmarks such as Hallgrímskirkja Church, Harpa Concert Hall, the Old Harbor, and local neighborhoods filled with vibrant murals and creative flair.
End the day with a warm welcome dinner at one of Reykjavík’s finest restaurants, offering a curated tasting menu of Icelandic specialties.
Day 2: Reykjanes Peninsula & Blue Lagoon Escape
We have dedicated day 2 for you to explore the lesser-visited Reykjanes Peninsula.
Visit the Bridge Between Continents, where the Eurasian and North American tectonic plates meet, witness the bubbling fury of Gunnuhver hot springs, and feel the spray of Atlantic waves at the Brimketill lava rock pool.
After a light local lunch, unwind with a premium Blue Lagoon experience featuring private changing facilities and exclusive spa options. Later in the evening, embark on a private sunset photography tour around Reykjavík’s coastal paths, capturing the soft Arctic light over the harbor and Mount Esja.
Day 3: Golden Circle with Secret Detours
Today, you’ll journey into Iceland’s Golden Circle with a twist—your guide will reveal secret stops that most visitors miss.
At Þingvellir National Park, hike quiet trails that reveal hidden rift valleys and waterfalls beyond the main paths.
Experience a private geothermal bakery picnic at a local farm where bread is baked underground in natural hot springs.
Conclude your Golden Circle exploration with the spectacular sights of the Gullfoss waterfall and the steaming Geysir geothermal area, arriving early or late to avoid crowds.
Base 2: Snæfellsnes Peninsula 3 Nights
Day 4: Scenic Transfer to Snæfellsnes
Depart Reykjavík for the mystical Snæfellsnes Peninsula, often called “Iceland in miniature” for its diverse landscapes.
Stop first at Eldborg Crater for a short hike around the perfectly formed volcanic cone.
Then, venture underground with a guided tour of Vatnshellir Cave, exploring lava tunnels formed by ancient eruptions.
End the afternoon with a walk on the black-pebble beaches of Djúpalónssandur.
Day 5: Coastal Trails & Sea Adventures
Begin with a private guided hike along the dramatic cliffs between Arnarstapi and Hellnar, where birdlife, basalt formations, and crashing surf create a stunning setting and an unforgettable atmosphere.
Then head to the quiet waters of Breiðafjörður for a sea kayaking experience, gliding past tiny islands and nesting birds under wide-open skies.
Round off the day with a twilight photography session at Kirkjufell, Iceland’s iconic mountain shaped by glaciers and the sea.
Day 6: Snæfellsjökull Glacier 4×4 Adventure, Shark Tasting & Foss Waterfall Trail
Begin your day with an exhilarating private Super Jeep excursion up the flanks of Snæfellsjökull glacier, one of Iceland’s most iconic and mythical peaks.
Weather permitting, your expert guide will take you along rugged 4×4 trails that weave across lava fields and ancient ice caps, offering breathtaking panoramas over the Atlantic Ocean and the dramatic coastline of Snæfellsnes.
Along the way, you’ll hear stories about the glacier’s deep connection to Icelandic folklore and its literary fame, as featured in Journey to the Center of the Earth.
After descending from the glacier, continue your cultural Journey with a private visit to a traditional shark farm.
Here, you’ll learn the fascinating (and slightly quirky) history of Icelandic fermented shark, known as hákarl. Walk through the drying sheds, listen to the family’s stories about fishing traditions, and—if you’re feeling adventurous—sample a small bite paired with a shot of local schnapps, as is custom.
In the afternoon, stretch your legs on a peaceful walk through the Fossárlönd waterfall area, a lush and lesser-known valley where multiple small waterfalls cascade through mossy lava fields.
Your guide will tailor the walk to your pace, making time for relaxed photography breaks and quiet moments to take in the beauty of this hidden Snæfellsnes gem.
Base 3: Westfjords (Ísafjörður or Patreksfjörður, 4 nights
Remote Cliffs, Wildlife & History
Day 7: Breiðafjörður Ferry Crossing & Dynjandi Waterfall
Begin the day with a scenic ferry ride across Breiðafjörður Bay, passing countless small islands rich with birdlife.
With your private guide, capture stunning photographs of the coastal views as seabirds wheel overhead and basalt cliffs loom in the distance.
On arrival in the Westfjords, your first stop is the magnificent Dynjandi waterfall, one of Iceland’s most breathtaking cascades. Spend time here capturing the intricate, fan-like tiers of the falls from various perspectives with help from your guide.
Day 8: Látrabjarg Cliffs, Red Sands & Sea Salt Craftsmanship
Today’s adventure begins with a private hike along the towering Látrabjarg cliffs—the westernmost point of Iceland and home to thousands of puffins during the summer months.
Next, explore the quiet shores of Rauðasandur Beach, known for its unusual red and golden sands. Enjoy a stroll along this peaceful coastline with barely another soul in sight, soaking in the vastness and serenity of the Westfjords.
Conclude the day with a fascinating visit to a traditional Westfjords sea salt farm, where centuries-old techniques are still practiced. Learn the story behind Icelandic sea salt and sample some of the purest salt in the world.
Day 9: Fjord Safari, Hornstrandir Option & Hot Springs
Spend today exploring the labyrinthine fjords of the Westfjords region, taking scenic backroads with your guide to discover hidden viewpoints, secret coves, and mirror-like waters ideal for photography.
If weather permits, opt for a private boat trip into the remote Hornstrandir Nature Reserve—one of Iceland’s last true wildernesses—known for its Arctic foxes, soaring cliffs, and untouched landscapes.
Finish your day with a rejuvenating soak in a natural hot spring river, letting the warmth and minerals restore you after your day of fjord exploration.
Day 10: Folk Traditions & Drive to the North
Before leaving the Westfjords, visit a charming folk museum where local stories, fishing traditions, and relics of daily life reveal the resilience of Iceland’s coastal communities.
Enjoy a tasting of local fish specialties, including lightly smoked and cured options, at a family-run café.
After lunch, your guide will drive you eastward toward North Iceland, transitioning from rugged cliffs to green valleys and gentle coastal roads.
Base 4: North Iceland (Hvammstangi or Siglufjörður) 3 Nights
Day 11: Seal Safari, Crater Climb & Basalt Canyon Walk
Today begins with a private seal-watching safari along the Vatnsnes Peninsula, one of Iceland’s best-kept secrets for wildlife encounters.
With your guide, you’ll visit hidden beaches and rocky outcrops where playful harbor and grey seals lounge. This relaxed coastal exploration also offers beautiful photo opportunities of remote fjords and open ocean vistas.
Next, your driver-guide will take you to Borgarvirki, an ancient volcanic crater that has been transformed into a natural fortress. A short climb to the summit rewards you with sweeping 360° views over the surrounding plains and coastline. Your guide will share the fascinating sagas and folklore tied to this mysterious stone structure, blending geology with myth.
The day continues with a visit to a nearby quiet basalt canyon, where layers of geometric rock formations frame a gentle river. Take a short, scenic walk through the canyon to absorb the textures and colors of North Iceland’s rugged landscapes.
Day 12: Herring Museum, Arctic Cruise & Lighthouse Sunset
This morning, step back in time with a private tour of the award-winning Herring Era Museum in Siglufjörður. As you wander through historic buildings and restored ships, your guide will bring to life the “herring boom” that once defined this vibrant fishing town. It’s an evocative glimpse into Iceland’s maritime soul.
In the afternoon, set sail on a private Arctic Circle boat cruise from Dalvík or Siglufjörður. Watch for whales, seabirds, and dolphins as you cruise through glacier-carved fjords and cross close to the Arctic Circle itself. Your captain-guide will tailor the cruise to the conditions and your interests, striking a balance between scenic beauty and wildlife spotting.
As the sun begins its slow descent, your day concludes with a visit to a remote lighthouse perched along the coast. With panoramic views of the North Atlantic and the pastel colors of a northern sunset overhead, it’s the perfect quiet finale to a richly textured day.
Day 13: Lava Field Horseback Ride, Beer Spa & Storytelling Dinner
Begin your day Icelandic style—with a gentle horseback ride across lava fields on the famously smooth-gaited Icelandic horse.
Your private riding guide will match you with a steady mount and lead you through ancient mossy lava landscapes, sharing tales of Viking history and the horses’ special place in Icelandic culture.
Afterward, unwind in an entirely different way with a visit to the local beer spa. Soak in warm tubs filled with young beer, hops, and yeast—a surprisingly soothing and skin-softening experience.
This evening, gather for a private folk storytelling dinner at a local guesthouse. Over a cozy meal made with regional ingredients, your hosts will share sagas, songs, and legends passed down through generations, offering an intimate window into the heart of Icelandic tradition.
Base 5: Mývatn & Húsavík Days 3 Nights
Day 14: Godafoss, Lake Mývatn Wonders & Lava Landscapes
Today, your guide leads you through some of North Iceland’s most iconic yet peaceful landscapes.
Begin with a private visit to Goðafoss, the “Waterfall of the Gods,” where the turquoise water cascades dramatically over curved cliffs. Your guide will share the site’s ancient Viking lore, including tales of Iceland’s conversion to Christianity, symbolized by this powerful waterfall.
Continue to Lake Mývatn, a wonderland of volcanic activity and serene natural beauty. You’ll explore the Hverir geothermal fields, where steaming vents, bubbling mud pools, and colorful mineral deposits create a landscape that resembles the moon more than the Earth. The smell of sulfur is part of the raw experience, and your guide will help you navigate the fascinating, ever-shifting Earth safely.
In the afternoon, take a gentle hike among the bizarre lava formations of Dimmuborgir, also known as the “Dark Castles.” Twisting towers of lava rise dramatically from mossy plains, and local legends speak of elves, trolls, and Christmas spirits who inhabit the landscape.
Your guide will lead you to hidden viewpoints, perfect for photography and quiet reflection, before returning you to your base.
Day 15: Whale Encounters, Sea Spa Soaks & Arctic Peninsula Exploration
Set off in the morning to the charming harbor town of Húsavík, often called the whale-watching capital of Iceland.
Here, you’ll embark on a private whale-watching cruise aboard a sturdy RIB (rigid inflatable boat), allowing you to get close to humpbacks, minkes, and even blue whales when conditions are right. Your expert marine guide will narrate the adventure, helping you spot breaches, tail slaps, and playful dolphins along the way.
After your thrilling encounter with Iceland’s marine giants, unwind at GeoSea, a striking thermal spa perched on a cliff above the Arctic Ocean.
Soak in mineral-rich, warm seawater pools while gazing out over snow-capped mountains and drifting seabirds. Unlike other geothermal spas, the seawater at GeoSea is naturally heated and replenished, offering both relaxation and rejuvenation in a stunning setting.
Round out the day with a private exploration of the Tjörnes Peninsula, a lesser-visited gem where fossil cliffs, windswept viewpoints, and wildflower meadows meet the North Atlantic.
Day 16: Lofthellir Ice Cave or Lava Tunnel, Crater Picnic & Night Skies
Today offers a true adventure beneath Iceland’s volcanic surface.
In summer, Journey to the Lofthellir Ice Cave with your private guide, a hidden gem filled with surreal ice formations inside an ancient lava tube.
If visiting in winter, consider a dramatic lava tunnel exploration near the Mývatn region, where underground colors and textures create an otherworldly scene. Either way, it’s a remarkable glimpse into Iceland’s dynamic underground world.
After your subterranean adventure, enjoy a privately arranged picnic at the rim of a remote crater. Your driver-guide will select a quiet, scenic spot away from the crowds where you can enjoy fresh Icelandic specialties, steaming coffee, and stunning views of the surrounding lava plains and craters.
As evening falls, weather permitting, embark on a private aurora hunt or a peaceful stargazing walk under North Iceland’s famously clear skies.
Your guide will help you find the best vantage points to capture the magic—whether it’s the swirling green of the northern lights or a deep, star-studded Arctic sky.
Base 6: Eastfjords (Seyðisfjörður or Djúpivogur) 3 Nights
Day 17: Dettifoss Waterfalls, Artist Village Arrival & Local Cuisine
Leaving Mývatn behind, today’s scenic drive east is filled with grand natural spectacles.
Your first major stop is Dettifoss, Europe’s most powerful waterfall. Standing near the thundering cascade with mist swirling around you is an unforgettable experience. Your guide will also lead you to the nearby Hafragilsfoss viewpoint—a quieter, equally stunning sight over dramatic canyons.
Continue through rugged highlands and down into the gentle embrace of the Eastfjords. You’ll arrive in a picturesque artist village, either the colorful Seyðisfjörður or the tranquil fishing town of Djúpivogur.
Once settled into your boutique guesthouse, enjoy a private tasting menu highlighting the best of local Eastfjords cuisine, from fresh seafood to foraged herbs and wild berries.
Day 18: Puffin Cliffs, Stone Collections & Fjord Photography
This morning, your private guide leads you on a rewarding hike along the coastal cliffs of Borgarfjörður Eystri, one of the best places in Iceland to observe puffins up close (in season).
Gentle trails, vivid green slopes, and sweeping ocean views make this a photographer’s paradise and a dream come true for wildlife lovers.
Later, explore Petra’s Stone Collection—a beloved, quirky museum celebrating the incredible variety of minerals and crystals found throughout the Eastfjords. Discover Petra’s life and passion for nature with the opportunity to find your lucky stone to take home.
Round off the day with leisurely stops at lesser-known fjords, capturing serene fishing villages, towering mountains, and mirror-calm waters through your camera lens. Your guide knows the perfect, uncrowded spots for breathtaking photos and quiet contemplation.
Day 19: Papey Island, Abandoned Farms & Sculpture Trails
Today, you’ll set sail on a private boat tour to Papey Island, a small, peaceful outpost known for its bird colonies and historic lighthouse.
Stroll its grassy meadows with your guide, looking for nesting seabirds, seals, and panoramic views of the Eastfjords coastline.
After returning to the mainland, explore the haunting remains of abandoned fjord farms, a powerful testament to Iceland’s rural past. Your guide will share stories of the hardy families who once lived in these remote landscapes, eking out a living in an unforgiving environment.
In the afternoon, enjoy a more modern cultural encounter: a visit to a sculpture trail near Djúpivogur, where contemporary art installations blend with the rugged environment. It’s a perfect blend of creative energy and Iceland’s timeless natural beauty.
Base 7: Höfn (3 nights)
Day 20: Glacier Ridge Hike, Pebble Beaches & Scenic Southbound Drive
Leave the Eastfjords behind today as you continue your Journey south.
Begin with a guided hike along a dramatic glacier ridge, offering panoramic views of untouched ice flows and jagged mountain spines. The hike is designed to be moderate and accessible, making it both exhilarating and manageable.
Afterward, stop at a quiet, black-pebble beach where polished stones gleam in shades of gray and silver. With only the sounds of the ocean and seabirds as your backdrop, it’s a perfect place to stretch your legs and take photos far from tourist crowds.
Your afternoon unfolds along Iceland’s wild southeastern coast, passing through tiny villages, hidden waterfalls, and sweeping fjord vistas before reaching your next base near Höfn—the gateway to Vatnajökull National Park and the glacial wonders ahead.
Day 21: Jökulsárlón Ice Lagoon, Diamond Beach & Glacier Insights
Today, you journey to the magical Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon, where immense blue icebergs drift through a serene glacial lake toward the sea.
You’ll embark on a private amphibian boat ride weaving between the towering ice blocks while your guide shares the story of the ever-changing Vatnajökull Glacier. Afterward, step onto the black sands of Diamond Beach, where polished ice chunks glitter like jewels in the tide.
Later, visit the Vatnajökull Visitor Center, where exhibits explain the science and folklore behind Europe’s largest glacier.
Gain a deeper understanding of the incredible forces shaping the land you’ve been exploring, from ancient ice flows to volcanic eruptions beneath the glacier itself. The evening offers time to relax and take in the spectacular views from your cozy base near Höfn.
Day 22: Ice Cave Wonders, Glacier Kayaking & Secluded Picnic
Adventure awaits with a private guided journey into one of Vatnajökull’s extraordinary ice caves.
Depending on the season and conditions, you’ll venture deep into glistening sapphire tunnels, listening as your guide explains the life cycle of these frozen cathedrals. It’s an ethereal experience that feels like stepping into another world.
Next, swap hiking boots for paddles with a kayaking excursion on Heinabergslón, a quieter glacial lagoon dotted with smaller icebergs.
Glide across still, silvery waters at your own pace, with seals occasionally popping up to say hello. After your kayak tour, enjoy a private lakeside picnic at Fjallsárlón, with local specialties served against a backdrop of creaking ice and open skies.
Base 8: Vík or Near Kirkjubæjarklaustur – 4 nights
Day 23: Cliffs, Caves & Cultural Tales
Your day begins with early morning photography at two iconic coastal landmarks: Dyrhólaey, where towering sea arches rise dramatically from the ocean, and Reynisfjara, the famed black sand beach backed by basalt columns.
With the help of your guide, you’ll find quieter angles and learn about the folklore of trolls turned to stone.
In the afternoon, board a super jeep for an exhilarating ride to the Katla Ice Cave.
This lesser-visited glacier cave adventure takes you beneath Mýrdalsjökull’s ancient ice cap to a world of shimmering blue corridors and volcanic ash layers.
Finish the day with a visit to a local folk museum, where storytelling sessions and curated exhibits bring Iceland’s rural past vividly to life.
Day 24: Þakgil Canyon Secrets & Farm Feasts
Venture off on a private hike into the secretive Þakgil Canyon, a hidden green paradise flanked by mossy cliffs and river trails. The scenery is fantastical and serene, with picnic stops in grassy clearings and endless photography opportunities.
Later, your guide will lead you to hidden waterfalls tucked away from the tourist trail—perfect spots for quiet reflection and immersion in nature.
In the evening, sit down for a farm-to-table dinner featuring hyperlocal Icelandic ingredients hosted in a charming countryside setting. Enjoy seasonal flavors like Arctic char, lamb, or foraged berries in the relaxed company of your hosts.
Day 25: Glacier Hikes, Lava Shows & Folklore Heritage
Today brings a chance to lace up your boots for a private, easy-paced glacier hike on Sólheimajökull.
With crampons provided and a guide at your side, explore glittering ice ridges, crevasses, and frozen moulins safely, capturing incredible photos from the summit of the glacier tongue.
After the hike, enjoy a lively and educational visit to the Lava Show experience in Vík, where real molten lava is poured before your eyes, recreating the dramatic events that shaped Iceland’s fiery geology.
Conclude the day at the Skógar Folklore Museum, an atmospheric collection of turf houses, boats, and cultural artifacts that weave together centuries of Icelandic life and legend.
Day 26: Highlands Gateway, Waterfalls & Remote Cabin Stay
Today, you leave the ring road behind and venture into Iceland’s wild, rugged highlands.
Your Journey begins with a stop at Hjálparfoss, a beautiful twin waterfall framed by dramatic basalt formations, where you’ll have time for photographs and a peaceful walk along the riverbank. Your guide will share the old tales of how travelers once relied on this remote spot for water and rest.
Continuing deeper inland, you’ll stop for a scenic picnic at the base of Hekla, Iceland’s most notorious volcano, often referred to as the “Gateway to Hell” in medieval times. Enjoy a hearty outdoor lunch with views of stark lava fields and grassy plains as your guide tells stories of Hekla’s powerful eruptions and its place in Icelandic folklore.
In the afternoon, settle into your remote highland cabin, surrounded by endless volcanic landscapes and the kind of silence only the interior can offer. This off-grid retreat offers cozy warmth, starry skies, and true tranquility—the perfect base for your final Icelandic adventures.
Day 27: Landmannalaugar’s Colorful Highlands & Natural Spa Soak
Today is dedicated to Landmannalaugar, the heart of Iceland’s colorful rhyolite mountains and one of the most stunning hiking areas in the country.
With your private guide, choose a hiking route suited to your pace—perhaps along the Laugahraun lava field or up the modest peaks for sweeping vistas of red, green, and yellow hills stitched together by rivers.
After your hike, reward your efforts with a soak in the natural hot springs of Landmannalaugar. Slip into the warm river pools framed by dark lava and vibrant slopes, and relax as you gaze out across a truly otherworldly landscape. Few experiences rival the pure bliss of bathing in nature’s geothermal spa after a day of exploration.
In the evening, gather for a private BBQ in the wild, prepared by your guide. If skies are clear, watch as stars emerge over the highland desert, untouched by city lights.
Day 28: Return to Reykjavík
Make your way back toward Reykjavík with stops for coffee and scenery along the way.
Celebrate your unforgettable adventure with a relaxed farewell dinner at a stylish Nordic bistro, where you can toast to the incredible memories made across Iceland’s volcanoes, glaciers, fjords, and coastlines.
