Summer · 8 Days / 7 Nights · Private & Fully Guided
Private Iceland Family Tour
Summer · 8 Days / 7 Nights · Private & Fully Guided
Private Iceland Family Tour
Duration
Group Type
Fully Private
Rating
5.0/5.0 · 152+ Reviews
Starting From
$1,500/ day
THE BEST OF ICELAND
Designed for adventure seekers, this journey showcases the very best of Iceland through a collection of thrilling experiences, dramatic landscapes, and unforgettable outdoor adventures. Discover Reykjavík’s vibrant culture and landmarks before exploring the famous Golden Circle, including Þingvellir National Park, Gullfoss waterfall, and the erupting Strokkur geyser. Relax in the geothermal waters of Laugarás Lagoon and the world-renowned Blue Lagoon.
Venture into Iceland’s volcanic heart with a hike through the geothermal valley of Reykjadalur and explore the spectacular Raufarhólshellir lava tunnel. Travel along the breathtaking South Coast, visiting black sand beaches, towering waterfalls, and the dramatic Katla Ice Cave. Explore Vatnajökull National Park, home to Europe’s largest glacier, and experience the magical Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon and Diamond Beach. Enjoy kayaking among floating icebergs, encounter puffins along the coast, and take in some of Iceland’s most spectacular natural scenery.
Throughout the journey, stay in carefully selected accommodations while enjoying a blend of adventure, relaxation, wildlife encounters, geothermal experiences, and Iceland’s unique geological wonders.
DAY 1: ARRIVAL & REYKJAVÍK CITY TOUR
Arrival, private airport pickup and transfer to your hotel in Reykjavík.
If early arrival, in the afternoon join your guide for Reykjavik sightseeing city tour. See Harpa concert hall and opera house, the beautiful landmark of Reykjavík Hallgrímskirkja church named by the fames poet Hallgrímur Pétursson. Hallgrímskirkja is a Lutheran (Church of Iceland) parish church, known for its distinctively curved spire and side wings, it has been described as having become an important symbol for Iceland’s national identity since its completion in 1986. You will visit the famous Sun Voyager sculpture by the ocean. Drive through downtown to see the Althing Parliament, the office of the prime minister of Iceland and the historic Höfði House, where the two leaders Ronald Reagan and Michael Gorbatjov met where they ended to cold war.
Spend the night in Reykjavík, Reykjavík Residence Apartments, or similar.
DAY 2: GOLDEN CIRCLE, FRIÐHEIMAR & LAUGARÁS LAGOON
Breakfast at hotel. Embark on the renowned Golden Circle tour, one of Iceland’s most iconic and captivating routes. Visit Þingvellir National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a place of profound natural and historical significance. Here, the dramatic landscape is defined by a vast tectonic rift valley marking the point where the Eurasian and North American plates drift apart. It was also at Þingvellir, in the year 930, that Iceland’s first Parliament was founded, the world’s oldest continuous democratic institution.
Geysir geothermal area, spreading over a surface of 3 km, is filled with so called boiling mud pits that, when active, expulse hot water high into the air, followed by a steady puff of evaporating steam, only to repeat this occurrence every couple of minutes. Strokkur erupts every 5 to 10 minutes, throwing a column of water into the air to a height of 20 to 30 meters.
Visit the majestic Gullfoss Waterfall, one of Iceland’s most beloved natural treasures. Fed by the glacier river Hvítá, Gullfoss cascades dramatically into a deep canyon with a total drop of 32 meters. In summer, when glacial meltwater from Langjökull Glacier surges downstream, the waterfall’s immense power reaches up to 140 cubic meters per second, a truly awe-inspiring sight. Enjoy unique lunch at Friðheimar greenhouse where tomatoes are cultivated. Nestled among the mountains and overlooking the Hvítá river, the exquisite two-story lagoon, Laugarás Lagoon, envelopes guests in its warm geothermal water, perfectly balanced with the landscape.
Spend the night in Reykjavík, Reykjavík Residence Apartments, or similar.
DAY 3: REYKJADALUR & PRIVATE RAUFARHÓLSHELLIR LAVA CAVE
Breakfast at hotel. Check out of your hotel. The Reykjadalur hike offers a perfect blend of adventure, relaxation, and Icelandic natural beauty, combining the thrill of trekking with the soothing reward of a geothermal soak. The name Reykjadalur translates to “Steam Valley,” a nod to the constant plumes of steam rising from the geothermal vents scattered throughout the valley. The hike begins at the trailhead just outside Hveragerði, a village renowned for its geothermal activity. From here, a well-marked path winds uphill through a rugged landscape of moss-covered lava fields, bubbling mud pools, and steaming vents. The terrain is moderately challenging in parts, with gentle inclines that make it accessible to most walkers, though proper hiking shoes are recommended as the path can be slippery in wet weather. As you ascend, the views open up to reveal colorful rhyolite hills, patches of geothermal steam, and the winding Reykjadalsá river flowing through the valley.
The highlight of the hike is the warm river, naturally heated by underground geothermal activity. Midway through the trail, hikers can relax in sections of the river where the water is a perfect bathing temperature, surrounded by untouched wilderness. This is a rare opportunity to enjoy a natural hot spring in a serene outdoor setting, with the steam rising around you and mountains framing the valley. Along the way, smaller geothermal features dot the landscape, including mud pots that bubble and hiss, and small fumaroles releasing mineral-rich steam. Wildlife is sparse, adding to the sense of isolation and tranquility. Continue past the main bathing area on the trail to the Djúpagilsfoss waterfall, a beautiful cascade tucked into the mountainside, perfect for photos and a moment of quiet reflection before descending. Explore the magnificent lava tunnel Raufarhólshellir, one of the longest and best-known lava tubes in Iceland. It is located just 30 minutes from Reykjavík and is easily accessed year round. The tunnel is covered in large rocks and difficult to pass. That is why paths and a footbridge have been constructed so it is easily accessible when doing the Lava Tunnel Tour. Impressive lighting in this part of the tunnel highlights the changing colors and clearly shows the poweful seismic activity that formed the tunnel.
Spend the night in Hella, Hotel Stracta or similar
DAY 4: SOUTH COAST & PRIVATE KATLA ICE CAVE
Breakfast at hotel. Check out of hotel. Today drive the south coast of Iceland to Reykjavík.
Visit Reynisfjara black beach which was, in 1991, ranked as one of the ten most beautiful non-tropical beaches in the world. Visit this beautiful black beach where the Atlantic coastline presents massive waves hit the unique basalt columns in the cliffs above the sand. Rock pillars in the water and the cliffs of Dyrhólaey are seen in the distance. This area of the south is also a paradise for bird lovers, as Puffins and dozens of other unique species nest on top of these cliffs in the summertime from June to August.
Prepare to meet the pearl of the South Coast, Skógafoss waterfall. Majestically tucked in a wide gorge, the waterfall tumbles down 60 metres from up above a cliff into a small river, producing a cloud of mist and spray that rainbows like to dance in during sunshine. Try your power of endurance by running up the 527 steps to the top where you have amazing view of the waterfall and surrounding landscape.
Katla Ice Cave, The adventure begins with a thrilling Super Jeep ride through stunning Icelandic landscapes, leading to a remote and secret glacier area. Upon arrival, you’ll be provided with all necessary glacier gear, including a helmet, headlamp, and crampons. Enjoy a short walk to the entrance of the Katla Ice Cave, where you’ll step into a mesmerizing world of shimmering blue ice and natural sculptures. Explore and learn about the ever-changing beauty and geological history of this incredible site.
Spend the night near Skaftafell, Hotel Jökulsárlón or similar.
DAY 5: JÖKULSÁRLÓN GLACIER LAGOON & PRIVATE KAYAKING
Breakfast at hotel. This day will be spent in the National Park of Vatnajökull, with Skaftafell National Park situated near the largest glacier in Iceland and Europe, Vatnajökull.
Visit the famous glacier lagoon, Jökulsárlón. Jökulsárlón glacier lagoon is a beautiful lagoon in front of a calving glacier, Breiðamerkurjökull which is an outlet glacier from Vatnajökull, the largest glacier in Europe. Enjoy amazing view of floating icebergs in the lagoon and walk between them at the black beach, which is sometime referred to the Diamond Beach. The Jökulsárlón Glacier lagoon is considered as one of the natural wonders of Iceland. Fjallsárlón glacier lagoon is a breathtaking glacial lagoon located on the southeastern edge of Vatnajökull, Europe’s largest glacier. Formed by the retreat of the Fjallsjökull glacier tongue, the lagoon is filled with shimmering icebergs that calve directly from the glacier’s face and drift slowly across the serene, icy waters. Unlike the more famous Jökulsárlón, Fjallsárlón offers a quieter and more intimate experience, allowing visitors to fully appreciate the scale and beauty of the surrounding glacial landscape without large crowds. Towering mountains frame the lagoon, enhancing its dramatic atmosphere and making it a photographer’s paradise.
Kayaking on the Glacier lagoon provides outstanding experience and gives participants maqnificent view of the ice cap and the vast dome of ice that rises above. Come with us on this unique journey where we paddle amongst floating ice bergs and wildlife, seals and birds. This is the tour for those who want to be environmentally friendly while exploring nature. The tour is fully guided and all participants are provided with top of the line drysuite and all other necessary equipment. Our Kayaks are SIT-ON-TOP boats, very stable and should be suitable for persons who have not gone kayaking before.
Spend the night near Skaftafell, Hotel Jökulsárlón or similar.
DAY 6: JÖKULSÁRLÓN & PUFFIN ADVENTURE
Breakfast at hotel. Check out of your hotel.
Puffin tour with Öræfaferðir. A small family business that offers authentic tours on the family’s farm Hofsnes and in the mountains and glaciers of southeast Iceland. Ingólfshöfði Puffin Tour using tractor drawn hay cart was started in the year 1990 by the legendary farmer, Sigurður Bjarnason. His son Einar joined his father in the company in 1994 and started to offer mountain and glacier tours along with the puffin tours.
Dyrhólaey is a dramatic coastal promontory on Iceland’s South Coast, renowned for its sweeping ocean views, striking rock formations, and abundant birdlife. Once a volcanic island, it is now connected to the mainland and rises about 120 meters (394 feet) above the Atlantic Ocean, offering some of the most spectacular panoramas in the region. From the cliffs, visitors can enjoy breathtaking views of the black sand beaches of Reynisfjara, the sea stacks of Reynisdrangar, and, on clear days, the glacier capped volcano Mýrdalsjökull. Dyrhólaey is also one of Iceland’s best locations for birdwatching. During the summer months, it becomes a nesting site for thousands of seabirds, including the beloved Atlantic puffin, as well as Arctic terns and fulmars.
Visit the stunning Seljalandsfoss which is one of Iceland’s most famous attractions, with a dramatic 60-meter drop. To get a different perspective you can take a walk behind the waterfall into a wide cavern and look through the wall of water. Eyjafjallajökull is now famous for it´s 2010 volcanic eruption that disrupted air traffic in Europe and if weather is good you will have a view of this majestic volcano and glacier.
Spend the night in Reykjavík, Reykjavík Residence Apartments or similar.
DAY 7: REYKJANES PENINSULA & BLUE LAGOON
Breakfast at hotel. Explore the striking Reykjanes Peninsula Geopark, a UNESCO Global Geopark where the raw forces of nature are on full display. Visit Seltún, a vividly colored geothermal area where the earth hisses and steams through bubbling mud pools, fumaroles, and solfataras. The mineral-rich ground is painted in shades of yellow, white, and rusty red — the result of sulphur and sulphate deposits brought to the surface by intense geothermal activity. Continue your journey past Lake Kleifarvatn, a serene volcanic lake shaped mostly by the movement of tectonic plates. It lies within a dramatic rift zone where the Eurasian and North American plates are slowly drifting apart, creating a breathtaking landscape that tells the story of Iceland’s living geology. The Bridge Between Continents is a small footbridge over a major fissure, which is formed by the tectonics and rifting of the two continental plates.
Brimketill is a natural lava rock pool. Formed by volcanic activity and shaped by the relentless waves of the Atlantic Ocean, it creates a rugged and dramatic coastal scene. The pool itself is naturally carved into the lava and fills with seawater during high tide, often sending waves crashing spectacularly over its edges. Gunnuhver is an impressive and vibrant geothermal area, featuring bubbling mud pools and steaming fumaroles. The site is also linked to a captivating local legend, adding a layer of intrigue to its natural beauty. After passing the Reykjanesviti lighthouse, the oldest lighthouse in Iceland, drive towards the sea where high cliffs, black rock formations and breathtaking view of the Atlantic Ocean awaits. Enjoy the world famous and one of the wonders of the world, the Blue Lagoon. The mineral-rich waters offer a unique and first-hand experience of Iceland’s plentiful geothermal springs. The warm waters offer a perfect way to relax and reflect upon the natural beauty of this island. Blue Lagoon Signature – Blue Lagoon entrance, towel, silica mud mask, the use of a bathrobe, towel, a drink of your choice in water-bar, 2 other face masks and a gift.
Spend the night in Reykjavík, Reykjavík Residence Apartments or similar.
DAY 8: DEPARTURE
Departure. Group airport drop-off.
Included
– Private airport pickup & airport drop-off
– Professional local tour driver/guide in all excursions
– Daily tours
– Hotel accommodation and breakfast
– Blue Lagoon Signature
– Puffin watching (shared)
– Private Raufarhólshellir Lava Cave
– Private Katla Ice Cave
– Private kayaking
– Friðheimar signature soup
– Laugarás Lagoon Lerki
– National park fees
– Parking fees
– All taxes
Not Included
– Personal expenses
– Lunch and dinner
– Services on site that are not included in the itinerary
– Personal travel insurance (recommended)
– International and domestic flights
– Visa
Why travel with a PhD geologist?
Travelling Iceland is an award winning family run boutique DMC and tour operator that offers a wide variety of tours throughout Iceland. Travelling Iceland´s focus is to give the traveller the best of Iceland by journeying slowly, with a personal touch from a local guide. The company´s travel designers create bespoke itineraries, tailor-made to each guest´s needs and wishes. By customising its trips in this way, Travelling Iceland helps to make a dream holiday in Iceland come true.
We are proud to present that Travelling Iceland won Trip Advisor Travellers Choice Award 2022! Travel and Hospitality Award - Eco Friendly Tour Company of the year in Iceland in 2024! And the LTG Europe award 2019, for being the Private Tour Operator of the Year.
The Team & Our Vales
Travelling Iceland’s founder is Helga Bára, a geologist with a doctorate in micropaleontology, with special emphasis on past climatic and oceanic changes. Enthusiastic about nature and the environment and knowledgeable of her country. Helga Bára and her great team of experts will discover with you all the gems of the North.
Customer comes first
We listen carefully to each guest´s needs and wishes
We strive to achieve outstanding customer care
We are committed to provide a responsive and professional service
We communicate clearly and act decisively
We embrace the diversity of all people and cultures
We have the enthusiasm to think outside of the box when designing itineraries
We aim to provide unforgettable travel experience
We are taking responsibility
We have signed declarations of sustainable and responsible tourism.
We cooperate in the conservation of nature.
We support local communities
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