Reykjavik is a city that offers more than just its lively streets and cozy cafés—it’s a gateway to some truly memorable Icelandic experiences. Whether you’re interested in discovering the rugged landscapes on horseback, exploring magical ice caves, or chasing the elusive Northern Lights, Reykjavik is packed with tours that bring Iceland’s natural beauty to life. We especially love the Icelandic Horse Riding Tour, which lets you cross lava fields on gentle Icelandic horses. It’s a quiet, authentic way to connect with Iceland’s wild side, just minutes from the city. These tours offer a mix of adventure, scenery, and local culture that you’ll fondly remember long after your trip ends.
In this guide, we’ve rounded up the 14 best tours in Reykjavik, covering everything from full-day explorations of waterfalls and glaciers to quick wildlife adventures and mystical folklore walks. Each one brings a different piece of Iceland to your fingertips, whether you prefer outdoor adventures, family-friendly outings, or intimate small-group experiences. Let’s dive into what makes each of these tours stand out.
1. From Reykjavík: Icelandic Horse Riding Tour in Lava Fields
At number 1, this horse riding tour offers a chance to saddle up and explore Iceland’s volcanic landscape on gentle, well-trained Icelandic horses. The tour lasts between 2 and 4 hours, making it perfect for a morning or afternoon outing. You’ll pass through lava fields, green hillsides, and quiet trails just outside Reykjavik. The horses are famous for their smooth tölt gait, which makes even beginners comfortable. Notably, the tour is suitable for all ages and experience levels, with friendly guides who explain Icelandic horse culture and nature along the way. Many reviews highlight how the staff’s attentiveness and the horses’ calm demeanor make the experience unforgettable. It’s a rare chance to see Icelandic nature from horseback without venturing far from the city.
Bottom Line: Perfect for families, first-time riders, or anyone wanting a peaceful ride in the Icelandic countryside.
2. Reykjavik: Katla Ice Cave & South Coast Waterfalls Tour
At number 2, this full-day adventure takes you along Iceland’s stunning south coast to explore an extraordinary ice cave beneath Mýrdalsjökull glacier. The reliable reviews praise the mix of glaciers, waterfalls, and volcanic terrain, making it one of the most popular tours. Your day includes a super jeep ride through rugged terrain, a glacier hike, and visits to Skógafoss and Seljalandsfoss waterfalls. The highlight is walking inside the shimmering blue ice cave, which changes shape with the seasons. It’s a long day, but the dramatic scenery and the chance to stand inside a real ice cathedral make it worth it. The guides’ expertise and careful safety practices are another plus.
Bottom Line: Best suited for adventure lovers who want to combine glacier exploration with iconic waterfalls.
3. Reykjavik: The Golden Circle Full-Day Tour
Number 3 on our list is the classic Golden Circle tour, which covers three of Iceland’s most famous sights in 6.5 to 7 hours. The highlight is the Gullfoss waterfall, the erupting Geysir, and Thingvellir National Park, a UNESCO site where the North American and Eurasian tectonic plates meet. For many travelers, this tour offers a rundown of Iceland’s geology and history in a convenient package. The guides are praised for their knowledge, and many reviews mention how the stops allow ample time for photos and exploration. The trip provides great value, especially if you’re tight on time but want a solid taste of Iceland’s highlights.
Bottom Line: Ideal for first-timers seeking an efficient overview of Iceland’s natural wonders.
4. From Reykjavik: Raufarhólshellir Lava Tunnel Tour
Ranking number 4, this lava tunnel tour immerses you underground into a natural volcanic tube. The reviews highlight the wonder of walking through a lava cave formed during past eruptions. The tour lasts from 1 to 3 hours and involves exploring recent volcanic activity, crawling through narrow passages, and marveling at the curious rock formations. It’s a fascinating peek into Iceland’s fiery interior—an ideal pick for those interested in geology or seeking a different kind of adventure. The guided walk is suitable for most fitness levels and offers an intimate view of Iceland’s volcanic power.
Bottom Line: A must-do for geology enthusiasts or families looking for a memorable underground experience.
5. Reykjavik: Whale Watching Tour with Expert Guide
Number 5 delivers a whale watching experience that’s both reliable and exciting. Departing from Reykjavik’s harbor, this cruise often spotlights minke whales, dolphins, and humpbacks, with the crew providing expert commentary. Many reviewers note how close and active the whales are—some even see orcas! The boats are comfortable with warm overalls and onboard café options. If whales aren’t spotted, you’ll receive a free ticket for a return trip, making it a low-risk adventure. The 2-3 hour trip is perfect for families, camera buffs, or anyone wanting to see Iceland’s rich marine life.
Bottom Line: A top choice for wildlife lovers wanting a flexible, well-organized tour with high chances of sightings.
6. Small-Group Ice Cave Tour from Jökulsárlón
Number 6 offers an intimate ice cave experience inside Vatnajökull glacier—the largest in Europe. The small-group format (max 8 people) ensures personal attention and flexible timing, with guides carefully selecting the safest and most stunning caves daily. The 2.5-hour tour involves riding a 4×4 super jeep, then hiking across the ice cap to reach the crystalline blue chambers. Photographers rave about the colors and formations inside the caves, making this a must for serious shutterbugs. The experience is weather-dependent, but the guide’s expertise guarantees safety and maximizes your chance of seeing the best formations.
Bottom Line: Perfect for adventurous travelers and serious photographers wanting a personalized glacier experience.
7. Reykjavik: Northern Lights Tour – Pro Aurora Photos – Small Group
Number 7 is a small-group Northern Lights tour, which offers a personalized hunt for the aurora borealis. Starting from Reykjavik, your guide takes you to the best viewing spots based on weather conditions. The tour includes plenty of hot cocoa, and if the lights stay elusive, you can try again until you succeed. Many reviews praise the knowledgeable guides and the opportunity to play with Viking weapons and take professional-quality photos. The 3 to 5-hour experience is ideal for travelers eager to capture one of Iceland’s most iconic sights.
Bottom Line: Best for photographer enthusiasts or those keen on a flexible, dedicated aurora hunt.
8. Golden Circle and Northern Lights Superjeep Tour from Reykjavik
Number 8 combines the Golden Circle with a Northern Lights chase on a rugged 4×4 Super Jeep. Over about 10 hours, you’ll explore Thingvellir, Geysir, and Gullfoss, then head out into the dark for a better chance of seeing the aurora. The super jeep handles Iceland’s tough terrain and provides a cozy cabin environment. Many travelers mention how guides make the long day engaging with stories and local insights, and the late-night Aurora hunt often results in stunning photos. It’s a bit longer and pricier but offers a comprehensive day of sightseeing plus the chance to see the Northern Lights.
Bottom Line: For those who want a full-day adventure with a guaranteed shot at the aurora.
9. Reykjavik: Sightseeing Walking Tour with a Viking
Ranking at number 9, this 2-hour walking tour introduces you to Reykjavik’s highlights with a storyteller dressed as a Viking. You’ll see the Harpa Concert Hall, Reykjavik Pond, and the old city center, while learning about local legends and folklore. The tour is lively, fun, and a great way to get your bearings. Many reviews mention how the guide’s storytelling makes it memorable and entertaining. It’s best suited for travelers interested in culture, legends, and a relaxed pace.
Bottom Line: Ideal for those wanting a quick, engaging overview of Reykjavik’s history and myths.
10. Reykjavik: Epic South Coast Tour – Waterfalls & Black Beach
Number 10 offers a comprehensive 9.5-hour trip along Iceland’s south coast, including Skógafoss and Mýrdalsjökull glacier. Many reviewers praise the small group size and the expert guides who share stories about Icelandic sagas and geology. The tour includes a visit to Reynisfjara’s black sand beach, with its basalt columns and sea stacks. It’s a long day but packed with stunning scenery and photo opportunities. The route is flexible, and many guests consider it one of the best ways to see the south coast’s highlights in one trip.
Bottom Line: Perfect for travelers who want an in-depth, scenic exploration of Iceland’s iconic coast.
11. Private Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon 2 Day Tour & Glacier Hike
Number 11 features a 2-day private tour with an overnight stay, offering an in-depth look at Iceland’s South Coast. It includes visits to waterfalls, black sand beaches, the Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon, and a glacier hike on Falljökull. Many reviews mention how this personalized experience allows time to savor each sight without feeling rushed. The guide’s knowledge and the flexibility of a private tour make it a standout choice for couples or small groups wanting a premium Iceland adventure.
Bottom Line: Best for travelers wanting a tailored, immersive experience with plenty of glacier time.
12. Whale Watching Tour with Professional Guide from Reykjavik
Number 12 offers a more traditional whale watching experience from Reykjavik’s harbor. The 3.5-hour cruise focuses on spotting whales, dolphins, and porpoises, with onboard Wi-Fi and a café. Many reviewers praise the skill of the crew and the comfort of the boat, noting multiple sightings of humpbacks and other species. It’s a good choice for those with limited time but still eager to see marine wildlife. Weather can influence sightings, but the tour’s flexibility and environmental focus are clear advantages.
Bottom Line: Great for wildlife enthusiasts who want a reliable, short trip to see whales and dolphins.
13. Reykjavik: Guided Folklore Walking Tour
Number 13 is a storytelling tour exploring Reykjavik’s legends, elves, trolls, and ghosts. The 1.5-hour walk visits historic sites like old graveyards and the Catholic Cathedral, with a focus on Icelandic magic and folklore. The lively guide’s tales make it a fun, engaging way to learn about local culture. It’s well-suited for families or anyone curious about Iceland’s mystical side. The reviews mention the guide’s humor and the memorable stories shared along the route.
Bottom Line: Ideal for those interested in Icelandic myths and local legends.
14. Puffin Cruise with Expert Tour Guide from Reykjavik
Finally, number 14 takes you on an ecological puffin cruise, which gets you close to Akurey Island. The 1-hour trip includes binoculars and commentary about puffin behavior. Reviewers love how close the boat gets to the birds and how well the guide explains their biology. It’s a quick, family-friendly outing that offers a unique wildlife viewing opportunity in Reykjavik. If you’re a bird lover or just want to see some adorable seabirds up close, this tour won’t disappoint.
Bottom Line: Perfect for wildlife lovers seeking a short, engaging nature experience.
How to Choose the Right Tour in Reykjavik
When selecting your perfect Icelandic experience, consider your interests, time, and budget. For a comprehensive introduction, the Golden Circle is hard to beat, especially if you want a quick overview. Want a hands-on adventure? The Ice Cave or Horse Riding tours offer immersive, memorable moments. For wildlife, whale watching and puffin cruises provide close encounters with nature. Those chasing the Northern Lights should look into guided tours with flexible rescheduling options—like the Pro Aurora Photos.
Practical tips: Book early in peak season (winter and summer) and dress warmly; many tours involve outdoor activity. Check availability for your travel dates, especially for seasonal experiences like ice caves.
To sum it up, Reykjavik’s diverse tour offerings mean there’s something for every traveler. Whether you’re after a peaceful horseback ride through lava fields, a daring glacier adventure, or a cozy folklore walk, these tours bring Iceland’s landscapes and stories to life. For families, the puffin cruise or whale watching might be ideal, while adventure seekers could love the ice caves or glacier hikes. Don’t forget to reserve in advance, especially for seasonal tours, to secure your spot on these unforgettable excursions.