Iceland is a place where nature’s forces are on full display, making it a paradise for travelers craving unique outdoor experiences. Its rugged landscapes, vast glaciers, active volcanoes, and shimmering auroras mean that a well-chosen tour can turn a trip into a truly memorable adventure. Among the many options, we particularly love tours that blend active exploration with expert guides—like the Iceberg Boat Tour, Glacier Hike & 4X4 Jeep Adventure, which combines a serene boat ride on a glacier lagoon with a hands-on glacier hike and an adrenaline-pumping jeep ride. This kind of multi-faceted experience offers not just stunning views but also the chance to get close to Iceland’s icy heart.
Many tours stand out for their ability to combine storytelling, practical access, and breathtaking scenery. Whether you’re into volcanoes, glaciers, or the northern lights, the options below give you a snapshot of Iceland’s best adventures, each with its own unique flavor and appeal.
1. Iceberg Boat Tour, Glacier Hike & 4X4 Jeep Adventure
At number 1, this tour offers a full glacier experience. It begins with a Zodiac boat cruise on Fjallsárlón lagoon, where you’ll see floating icebergs up close and personal. The same operator, Fjallsárlón, maintains a small group size—max 10 people—ensuring a personalized and relaxed atmosphere. Following the boat ride, you’ll enjoy a secluded glacier hike on Fjallsjökull, guided by certified glacier experts, which means you get a safe, informative trek across a shimmering ice surface. The adventure then continues with an exhilarating 4×4 jeep ride over rugged terrain, giving access to viewpoints inaccessible by foot.
This tour is particularly suited for travelers who want a mix of calm scenic cruising, active glacier exploration, and off-road excitement. Its reviews highlight the intimacy of the small group and the expertise of the guides, with one saying, “Marten was fantastic, and clearly loves his job!” The inclusion of free parking, restrooms, and the FROST restaurant adds convenience. The 5.5-hour duration makes it a satisfying, yet not overlong, adventure.
Bottom line: This tour is perfect if you want a balanced, comprehensive glacier experience with a personal touch and diverse activities.
2. Fagradalsfjall Volcano Hike – Small Group, Daily Tour
Ranked #2, this tour is ideal for those eager to walk on recent volcanic land. Led by a certified local guide who’s been in the area since the 2021 eruption, you’ll trek across fresh lava fields that are still warm and full of stories. It’s a true hike, lasting 3 to 6 hours depending on the pace, with the option of hotel pickup or meeting your guide at the volcano itself.
What makes this stand out is the guide’s extensive knowledge of geology and volcanic activity. During the hike, you’ll learn about the eruption’s formation and ongoing changes, making it as educational as it is exhilarating. The itinerary includes scenic stops at Seltún, Kleifarvatn, and Grindavík, enriching your understanding of Iceland’s geothermal and volcanic landscape. Reviewers praise the small-group atmosphere and the guide’s hospitality, with one noting, “He even took us to hot springs when we finished early.” The tour is best suited for active travelers comfortable with a moderate level of fitness.
Bottom line: If you’re fascinated by volcanoes and want an insider’s view, this guided hike offers a rare, up-close look at recent volcanic activity with expert commentary.
3. From Husafell: Langjokull Glacier Snowmobile Tour
Number 3 is all about adrenaline and stunning scenery. Starting in Husafell, this tour whisks you onto Langjokull Glacier for an hour of snowmobiling—an experience that’s both thrilling and scenic. You’ll gear up with helmets, warm overalls, and buffs, then ride through the icy landscape, with guided commentary about the glacier’s formation and the snowmobiling process.
The ride offers spectacular views of the glacier and surrounding snow-capped peaks, with plenty of photo opportunities. It’s a straightforward, two-hour adventure for those craving a quick adrenaline boost in Iceland’s icy highlands. The tour’s value lies in the combination of scenic ride and the thrill of speeding across the glacier’s surface.
This tour is best suited for families, groups of friends, or anyone who’s eager to try snowmobiling in a safe environment. The experience is well-organized, with all necessary equipment provided, making it accessible even for first-timers.
Bottom line: For those seeking a fast-paced, exciting activity with stunning glacier vistas, this snowmobile tour hits the mark.
4. Northern Lights Tour From Reykjavik with Photos & Hot Choc
Number 4 on our list, this evening tour combines aurora chasing with cozy comforts. Led by a professional photographer, the small group heads out from Reykjavik to hunt the famous Northern Lights. The tour includes visits to the Aurora Northern Lights Museum, adding a cultural and educational element to the experience. As you wait and watch the sky, hot chocolate and Icelandic pastries keep you warm, and the guide’s photography tips help you capture your own magical moments.
With a 98% success rate, this tour is a solid choice for travelers who want a focused, small-group experience. The professional photos on request provide a great keepsake of this fleeting spectacle. Since the tour lasts four hours and includes hotel pickup and drop-off, it’s designed for comfort as well as adventure.
Reviewers mention the relaxed atmosphere and the guide’s knowledge: “The guide was great, and we even saw the aurora dance.” The downside is that, like all aurora tours, it depends on weather and solar activity, so patience is key.
Bottom line: If you’re after a well-organized, comfortable Northern Lights experience with photo options, this tour delivers.
5. Jökulsárlón: Ice Cave Tour with Glacier Hike & Super Jeep
Number 5 on our list is perfect for ice lovers. Starting from Jökulsárlón, this 6-hour tour features a guided ice cave exploration inside the glacier, combined with a hike on Vatnajökull, Europe’s largest ice cap. You’ll ride in a super jeep—a rugged vehicle that handles Iceland’s rough roads—and deepen your understanding of glacier formation and change.
The highlight is exploring the aquamarine ice walls of the cave, which are a photographer’s dream. The guided hike across Vatnajökull offers an immersive experience, making this an ideal choice for those who want to see the inside of a glacier rather than just admire it from afar. The tour includes photo stops and insights into how glaciers evolve, which is especially fascinating given current climate discussions.
This experience is best suited for travelers who are comfortable with moderate physical activity and want a deep dive into Iceland’s icy interior. The reviews often praise the expert guides and the awe-inspiring scenery.
Bottom line: If you’re interested in ice caves and glacier hikes, this tour offers a fantastic, immersive adventure.
6. Vatnajökull National Park: Glacier Kayaking Tour
Number 6 offers a different perspective—paddling among floating icebergs in Heinaberg Lagoon. This three-hour kayaking tour allows you to glide through waters surrounded by glaciers, with stunning reflections of snowy peaks mirrored in the mirror-like water.
The tour emphasizes ease and safety, using sit-on-top kayaks suitable for first-timers. The focus is on quiet observation of the scenery, making it perfect for travelers who want a peaceful, close-to-nature activity. The panoramic mountain and glacier views make for great photos, and the tranquil setting feels almost surreal.
It’s best suited for those with moderate fitness and a desire to see Iceland from the water, away from crowds. The guides are knowledgeable, and the experience is praised for its serenity and unique setting.
Bottom line: For a calm, scenic paddle among icebergs and glaciers, this kayaking tour provides a memorable, accessible experience.
7. Westman Islands (Vestmannaeyjar) Private Day Tour
Number 7 is a customized exploration of the Westman Islands, reachable by boat and land. This private day tour includes visits to the volcanic craters, puffin colonies (seasonal), and the Eldheimar Museum, which details the island’s volcanic past. You’ll also visit Eldfell Volcano and enjoy scenic coastal views.
The private nature of this tour means it can be tailored to your interests, whether you want more time with puffins, history, or geological sites. The itinerary is flexible, with a focus on wildlife, volcanic activity, and cultural stories. Highlights include whale watching and the chance to explore charming Heimaey town.
While rated 3.7, the experience is highly personalized, ideal for those wanting a flexible, intimate day in one of Iceland’s most scenic island groups. The tour’s main advantage is its private customization, making it suitable for families or groups who want a bespoke experience.
Bottom line: This private tour is perfect if you want to design your own day around Iceland’s volcanic islands and wildlife.
8. Neskaupstaður: RIB Boat Tour with Drink
Number 8 offers a short, high-energy sea adventure. The one-hour RIB boat tour from Neskaupstaður takes you into fjords to explore sea caves and towering sea cliffs. You’ll see the Páskahellir sea cave and Nípan sea cliff, with opportunities to learn about the area’s rich ecology and history from your guide.
The tour is designed for a quick thrill—perfect for travelers with limited time or those who want a taste of Iceland’s maritime landscape. After the cruise, you’re invited to enjoy a drink at Beituskúrinn, adding a social element to the experience. The vivid scenery and the chance to hear stories about local ecology make this a fun and engaging activity.
Best suited for those seeking a short, lively boat ride with scenic views and some light education. The high-speed nature of the ride makes it an exciting alternative to land-based tours.
Bottom line: Ideal for a quick, scenic sea excursion combined with a fun social stop.
9. Reykjavík: Northern Lights Tour in Spanish with 4×4 Vehicle
Number 9 is a specialized Northern Lights tour catering to Spanish speakers. Using a 4×4 vehicle, the tour ventures away from city lights in search of the aurora, with hotel pickup included. This tour emphasizes professional photos for all participants, helping you capture the spectacular sky dance.
Despite its lower rating (2/5), the focus on personalized transport and photo documentation makes it appealing for travelers who want a more private, tailored experience. It’s a practical choice if you’re looking for comfort and the chance to have your photos taken professionally, especially if you speak Spanish.
The tour is best suited for those who want a more personalized, language-specific experience and are willing to prioritize comfort and photography over higher ratings.
Bottom line: If reliable transportation and professional photos are your priority, this tour offers a comfortable and tailored Northern Lights experience.
10. Reykjavik: Kerlingarfjöll Private Jeep and Hiking Day Tour
Finally, number 10 is for travelers wanting an off-road adventure with a personal touch. This private 12-hour tour takes you into Iceland’s highlands, exploring the geothermal landscape of Kerlingarfjöll. The tour includes a hiking excursion through Hveradalir Valley and a jeep ride over rugged terrain, providing a full day of active discovery.
The focus on personalized service makes it perfect for those seeking flexibility and a customized experience. The highlight is hiking through geothermal valleys and soaking in the Highland Baths, making it suitable for active travelers who want to see Iceland’s highlands without sharing the experience with large groups.
The private nature of the tour allows for tailored stops and pace, ideal for families or groups with specific interests.
Bottom line: For those wanting a full-day, personalized exploration of Iceland’s highlands and geothermal areas, this private jeep and hike tour is unbeatable.
How to Choose Your Perfect Iceland Tour
When deciding between these options, consider your budget, fitness level, and interests. For active volcano enthusiasts, the Fagradalsfjall Volcano Hike offers an authentic walking experience. Adventure seekers craving icy thrills will love the Snowmobile Tour from Husafell, while those interested in spectacular scenery and wildlife should consider the Westman Islands private tour.
For a romantic or relaxed night, the Northern Lights tours provide comfort and photographic help, whereas the Iceberg Boat Tour and Glacier Hike suits travelers seeking diverse activities in one go. The Ice Cave and Glacier Kayaking tours are perfect for adventure and nature lovers.
Booking early is advised, especially in peak seasons (summer for glaciers and winter for Northern Lights). Be aware of your physical fitness and preferences—some tours involve hikes, snowmobiling, or driving over rugged terrain, which may not suit everyone.
Final Thoughts
Iceland offers a wealth of tour options tailored to different interests and activity levels. For a balanced experience, the Iceberg Boat Tour, Glacier Hike & 4X4 Jeep Adventure provides a well-rounded day of glacier exploration. If volcanoes fascinate you, the Fagradalsfjall Volcano Hike is an excellent choice. For off-road excitement, the Langjokull Snowmobile Tour delivers adrenaline and scenic views.
No matter which tour you choose, Iceland’s wild landscapes promise a memorable experience—so plan ahead, pack appropriately, and get ready to see some of the most extraordinary scenery on Earth.