8-Day Private Ring Road Tour Around Iceland: Waterfalls, Glaciers and Northern Lights
This private eight-day Ring Road tour packs Iceland’s essentials into a single circuit: geysers and waterfalls, glacial lagoons and black-sand coasts, with nightly chances to hunt the northern lights in winter. Ideal for travelers who want the full island without driving its winter roads.
The Experience
Before You Go
Layer for volatility
Iceland’s weather changes hourly — pack waterproof outerwear and an insulating mid-layer to stay comfortable through wind, rain and shine.
Footwear for terrain
Bring sturdy, waterproof boots for uneven trails, icy footpaths, and wet basalt beaches like Reynisfjara.
Camera battery care
Cold drains batteries fast; carry spares in an inside pocket and a microfiber cloth for wet lenses and salt spray.
Respect restricted zones
Stay behind signage at volatile geothermal areas and never get close to sneaker waves on black sand beaches.
Local Knowledge
Hidden Gems
- •Brúarfoss’ off-path blue streams — quieter and often less crowded than main Golden Circle stops
- •Small Eastfjords fishing harbors where local smokehouses sell fresh cured fish directly from the quay
Wildlife
- •Arctic fox (in remote eastern highlands)
- •Seals and, seasonally, humpback whales off northern and west coast waters
Conservation Note
Icelandic landscapes are sensitive to foot traffic and geothermal fragility; stick to marked paths, avoid collecting natural material, and follow local guidelines to protect flora and fragile soils.
Thingvellir served as the site of Iceland’s Althing in 930 AD, combining political history with visible tectonic rifts where Europe and North America meet.
Photographer's Notes
- • Thingvellir rift overlooking Almannagjá
- • Jökulsárlón lagoon edge and Diamond Beach
- • Reynisfjara black-sand shoreline looking toward Reynisdrangar
What to Bring
Waterproof breathable jacketEssential
Protects against wind-driven rain and retains warmth without overheating on hikes.
Sturdy waterproof hiking bootsEssential
Necessary for trails, wet beaches and glacier-edge walking.
Insulating mid-layer (fleece or down)Essential
Keeps you warm during long outdoor stops and evening northern lights watches.
Camera with wide-angle lens and spare batteries
Wide lens captures waterfalls and glaciers; spares mitigate cold-drained batteries.
Common Questions
Do I need to drive on this tour?
No — the tour provides private transportation and a driver-guide, so you can relax and focus on the scenery.
When is the best time to see the northern lights?
Northern lights are most visible from late September to early April on clear, dark nights; the tour includes nightly ‘hunt’ attempts in winter when forecasts allow.
Are the ice cave and glacier hikes included?
Ice-cave access and glacier hikes are optional add-ons and require prior booking; some caves are seasonal and guided for safety.
Is this tour suitable for children or travelers with limited mobility?
The itinerary is listed as suitable for all fitness levels; however, some sites require short walks on uneven ground and stairs, so check accessibility for specific stops if mobility is limited.
How much driving is involved each day?
Total loop is about 1,300 km around Iceland; expect average driving of 150–250 km per day depending on the day’s stops and activities.
What is the cancellation policy?
Full refund if canceled at least 6 full days before departure; 50% refund between 2 and 6 days; no refund within 2 days of departure.
Book This Experience
Check AvailabilityDuration
8 days
Location
Reykjavík, Capital Region
Difficulty
moderate
Fitness Level
Able to walk short to moderate distances on uneven terrain and climb stairs; not technically strenuous but expects mobility for short hikes.
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