8-Day Small Group Tour Around Iceland in Minibus From Reykjavik

Exploring Iceland’s breathtaking landscapes on a small group tour is an unforgettable experience. This 8-day adventure from Reykjavik promises stunning natural wonders, personalized experiences, and the chance to spot the elusive Northern Lights. Travelers will discover iconic attractions like Gullfoss waterfall and Thingvellir National Park, as well as venture off the beaten path to uncover the country’s hidden gems. With a knowledgeable guide, comfortable transportation, and optional activities, this well-organized tour offers the perfect balance of structure and independence. Get ready to learn about Iceland’s rugged beauty and uncover the secrets that make this island nation so captivating.

Key Points

• An 8-day small group minibus tour that explores major Icelandic attractions like Gullfoss, Geysir, and Thingvellir National Park, with maximum group size of 18.

• Optional activities include ice cave tours, glacier hikes, and whale watching, with additional options like horseback riding and lava cave exploration.

• Accommodations with breakfast provided, along with luggage storage, WiFi on the bus, and free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.

• Overwhelmingly positive reviews highlighting knowledgeable guides, safety, and organization, with a 4.9 overall rating from 555 reviews.

• Recommendations include dressing in layers, wearing comfortable walking shoes, and packing light due to frequent hotel changes during the 7-night tour.

Tour Overview and Highlights

The 8-day small group minibus tour around Iceland from Reykjavik takes travelers to the country’s major attractions, including the Gullfoss waterfall, Geysir geothermal area, Thingvellir National Park, Reynisfjara beach, Jökulsárlón glacier lagoon, Eastfjords, Lake Mývatn, Dimmuborgir lava pillars, Akureyri, and the Snaefellsnes Peninsula.

The comprehensive guided tour includes overnight accommodations with breakfast and a maximum group size of 18 travelers. Optional activities like ice cave tours, glacier hikes, and whale watching are available.

Reviewers praise the knowledgeable guides, safety, and organization of the tour, which offers a well-rounded Iceland experience in a compact itinerary.

Inclusions and Additional Options

Along With the comprehensive guided tour, the Iceland Small Group Tour offers several optional activities for travelers to enhance their experience.

Guests can book an Ice Cave Tour and Glacier Hike, both including safety equipment. There’s also a Hauganes Whale Watching Tour available.

The tour provides pickup and drop-off from designated bus stops, as well as WiFi on board.

Travelers can also choose from additional activities like Horseback Riding, VÖK Baths, Vidgelmir Lava Cave exploration, and gear rentals like hiking boots, waterproof jackets/pants, hats, gloves, and neck warmers.

Luggage storage is provided throughout the 7-night tour with breakfast included.

Tour Logistics

Pickup for the tour starts at 8:00 AM and may take up to 30 minutes to complete. The tour is not wheelchair accessible, but most travelers can participate. Free cancellation is available up to 24 hours in advance. The tour price starts at $2,571.50 per person and varies based on group size.

Logistics Details	Information
Pickup Time	8:00 AM
Pickup Duration	Up to 30 minutes
Wheelchair Accessibility	Not wheelchair accessible
Cancellation Policy	Free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance
Tour Price	Starts at $2,571.50 per person, varies by group size

Traveler Experiences and Reviews

How have travelers experienced this small group tour of Iceland? Overwhelmingly positive, with a 4.9 overall rating from 555 reviews – 99% of travelers recommend it.

Tourists praise the knowledgeable, safety-conscious guides who keep the tour well-organized. Highlights include exhilarating glacier hikes, serene whale watching, and even spotting the Northern Lights.

While hotel quality varies, especially in Akureyri, the majority of travelers are thrilled with the diverse experiences, from visiting iconic landmarks like Gullfoss and Jökulsárlón to exploring lava caves and thermal baths.

Preparation and Recommendations

To get the most out of this small group tour of Iceland, travelers are advised to dress in layers and bring waterproof gear. The daily itineraries include various activities, so comfortable walking shoes are a must.

Travelers should also expect to walk 2-4 miles each day and pack light due to the frequent hotel changes. Preparing for the tour is essential:

• Bring waterproof jackets, pants, hats, and gloves to stay warm and dry.
• Pack comfortable, broken-in walking shoes or hiking boots.
• Prepare for physical activities like glacier hikes and whale watching.
• Bring any personal items or medications needed for the duration of the trip.

Exploring Gullfoss, Geysir, and Thingvellir

After being picked up from Reykjavik, the tour group sets off to explore some of Iceland’s most iconic natural wonders.

First, they visit the awe-inspiring Gullfoss waterfall, cascading 105 feet over two tiers.

Next, they discover the Geysir geothermal area, home to the eponymous hot spring that erupts dramatically every 6-10 minutes.

The group then explores Thingvellir National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage site where the North American and Eurasian tectonic plates meet, creating a dramatic landscape of cliffs and canyons.

Throughout, the guide provides insightful commentary on the geology, history, and significance of these stunning natural attractions.

Discovering the Wonders of South Iceland

What else does the Iceland small group tour have in store as it continues its journey through South Iceland? The iconic Reynisfjara black sand beach, with its dramatic basalt columns and pounding surf, is a highlight.

Next, the group marvels at the serene Jökulsárlón glacier lagoon, where floating icebergs calve from the nearby glacier.

The Eastfjords region offers:

1. Breathtaking fjord landscapes
2. Quaint fishing villages
3. Opportunities to spot seals and migratory birds
4. Chances to hike through lush, moss-covered terrain

Finally, the tour explores the Snaefellsnes Peninsula, with its majestic Snaefellsjökull glacier-capped volcano, iconic black church, and rugged coastline.

This diverse South Iceland itinerary promises an unforgettable adventure.

Northern Delights: Mývatn and Akureyri

As the journey continues northward, the small group tour explores the captivating region around Lake Mývatn. This volcanic wonderland boasts bizarre lava formations, colorful hot springs, and a diverse array of birdlife.

Highlights include the otherworldly Dimmuborgir lava pillars, the steaming fumaroles of Námaskarð, and the serene waters of Mývatn itself.

Nearby Akureyri, known as the "Capital of North Iceland," offers charming streets lined with local shops and restaurants.

The tour allows ample time to hike, relax in the healing waters of the VÖK Baths, and learn about the region’s unique geology and ecology from the knowledgeable guide.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Customize the Tour Itinerary to My Preferences?

The tour can be customized to an extent, with optional add-on activities and the ability to tailor certain aspects. However, the core itinerary and destinations are set to provide a comprehensive Iceland experience for the group.

How Do I Get to the Designated Bus Stops for Pickup?

Travelers can reach the designated bus stops using public transportation or by arranging a private transfer with the tour operator. The tour company will provide detailed instructions on the pick-up locations and timing prior to the start of the tour.

Is There an Option to Extend the Tour Duration?

There’s no mention of an option to extend the tour duration in the provided information. The tour is an 8-day itinerary, and the details don’t indicate the possibility of extending the length of the trip.

What Is the Cancellation Policy if I Need to Change Plans?

The tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, allowing travelers the flexibility to change plans if needed. This policy provides peace of mind and accommodates any unforeseen circumstances that may arise.

Are Dietary Restrictions Accommodated During the Included Meals?

The tour provider offers flexibility for dietary restrictions. They can accommodate vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free diets during the included breakfast meals. Travelers should inform the company of any special dietary needs when booking the tour.

The Sum Up

This 8-day Iceland minibus tour offers an immersive and well-organized experience for nature enthusiasts. Travelers can explore the country’s stunning landscapes, witness natural wonders like the Northern Lights, and enjoy personalized experiences with a small group. With included activities, optional excursions, and knowledgeable guides, this tour provides an unforgettable way to discover the best of Iceland.