6-Day Minibus Tour Around Iceland: Ring Road, Glaciers & Northern Lights
A six-day, small-group minibus circuit that follows Iceland’s Ring Road from Reykjavík to the north and back—glacier hikes, ice caves, black-sand coasts, geothermal fields, and multiple chances to see the Northern Lights. Ideal for travelers who want a focused, guided run through Iceland’s most iconic landscapes.
The Experience
Before You Go
Layer for every day
Bring breathable base layers plus a waterproof outer shell—weather can shift from drizzle to sleet within hours.
Footwear matters
Wear waterproof boots with good tread for glacier hikes, rocky beaches, and muddy trails.
Respect coastal hazards
At Reynisfjara keep well back from sneaker waves and follow your guide—waves are powerful and unpredictable.
Charge and back up photos
Bring an external battery and extra memory cards—there are long drives and constant photo opportunities with limited charging stops.
Local Knowledge
Hidden Gems
- •Less-visited pullouts along the East Fjords for quiet coastal panoramas
- •Small town bakeries in the Eastfjords where locals gather—excellent for pastries and coffee
Wildlife
- •Arctic fox (rare in the wild)
- •Seals at Jökulsárlón and coastal bays
Conservation Note
Stay on marked trails and avoid moving or taking stones or shells; glacier and coastal ecosystems are fragile and tour operators follow local guidelines to minimize impact.
The Ring Road links sites that trace Iceland’s settlement and parliamentary history, including Þingvellir where the Alþingi met from 930 CE, marking Iceland’s early legal and social unity.
Photographer's Notes
- • Gullfoss upper platform for layered falls
- • Jökulsárlón shore and Diamond Beach for iceberg reflections
- • Dimmuborgir lava formations at low sun angles
What to Bring
Waterproof shell jacketEssential
Protects against wind and rain during coastal and highland stops.
Waterproof hiking bootsEssential
Necessary for glacier walks, black-sand beaches and wet trails.
Microspikes or crampon-compatible boots
Useful for icy paths in winter and on glacier access approaches.
Portable battery packEssential
Keeps phones and cameras charged during long driving days and remote stops.
Common Questions
How much walking is required on this tour?
Most stops involve short walks from parking to viewpoints; the glacier hike requires 1–2 hours of walking on uneven ice with a guide and provided crampons.
Are entrance fees for ice caves and SuperTruck included?
Glacier hike and ice-cave tour with safety equipment are included; optional activities like snorkeling or horseback riding are extra.
Can the tour accommodate dietary restrictions?
Breakfast is provided each morning; inform the operator of dietary needs during booking so they can accommodate where possible.
What are pickup logistics in Reykjavík?
Pick-up starts at 8:00 and can take up to 30 minutes; you may be assigned a nearby bus stop rather than individual hotel doors—check busstop.is for walking distances.
How likely is it to see the Northern Lights?
Aurora sighting depends on solar activity and clear skies; winter increases odds but sightings cannot be guaranteed.
Is this tour suitable for travelers with limited mobility?
Some sites have uneven terrain, stairs, or rocky surfaces; contact the operator ahead of time to discuss specific accessibility needs.
Book This Experience
Check AvailabilityDuration
6 days
Location
Reykjavík, Capital Region
Difficulty
moderate
Fitness Level
Suitable for travelers with basic fitness—must be able to walk on uneven ground and climb short stairways during stops; glacier hike requires moderate stamina.
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