Adventure by Nature
Explore Iceland through glaciers, volcanoes and unforgettable outdoor adventures
10 Days
North Iceland
A route through North Iceland, where volcanic landscapes, geothermal activity, and coastal environments come together in a less visited part of the country. This itinerary focuses on the Lake Mývatn region and the Diamond Circle, an area known for its geological diversity and strong contrasts. Compared to the South Coast, travel here is generally quieter, with more open space and fewer visitors. It is well suited for those looking to explore Iceland's natural features in more depth, with a balance of driving, short walks, and optional activities.
The Details
The Route
Reykjavík → Golden Circle → South Coast → Vatnajökull Region → Þórsmörk → Borgarfjörður → Snæfellsnes Peninsula → Reykjavík
Following a route designed around Iceland’s most exciting outdoor experiences, the journey explores glacier landscapes, black sand coastlines, volcanic regions, mountain valleys and lava fields. Each stage of the program introduces a new environment and a new way to experience Iceland’s remarkable natural diversity.
Tour Itinerary
Arrival in Iceland and transfer to Reykjavík.
Set between mountains and the North Atlantic Ocean, Reykjavík offers an ideal introduction to Iceland and the adventures ahead. Explore the city's harbour, colourful streets and modern Nordic culture before gathering for a welcome dinner and trip briefing.
Overnight: Reykjavík
Day 2 – Golden Circle & South Iceland
Journey into the Icelandic countryside to discover the famous Golden Circle, one of the country's most celebrated sightseeing routes.
Begin at Þingvellir National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site where the North American and Eurasian tectonic plates slowly drift apart. Continue to the geothermal area of Geysir, where bubbling hot springs and erupting geysers showcase Iceland's volcanic energy, before visiting the powerful Gullfoss Waterfall, where glacial water plunges into a dramatic canyon below.
In the afternoon, travel through the fertile farmlands of South Iceland beneath views of the glacier-capped volcanoes Hekla, Eyjafjallajökull, and Mýrdalsjökull, setting the stage for the adventures ahead.
Overnight: South Iceland
Day 3 – Glacier Hiking on Sólheimajökull
Today's journey focuses on the glacier landscapes of Iceland's South Coast.
Travel beneath the towering ice cap of Mýrdalsjökull to Sólheimajökull, one of Iceland's most accessible outlet glaciers. Equipped with crampons and accompanied by experienced glacier guides, venture onto the ice itself to explore crevasses, moulins and ever-changing formations sculpted by centuries of movement.
The adventure is complemented by visits to two of Iceland's most iconic waterfalls, Seljalandsfoss and Skógafoss, both fed by glacial rivers descending from the highlands above. Continue through black sand plains and coastal landscapes before arriving in the charming village of Vík.
Overnight: Vík Area
Day 4 – Black Sand Beaches & Southeast Iceland
Continue east along one of Iceland's most spectacular stretches of coastline.
Visit the dramatic sea cliffs of Dyrhólaey, where panoramic views stretch across black sand beaches, sea stacks and glacier-covered volcanoes. Nearby, explore Reynisfjara Black Sand Beach, famous for its basalt columns, powerful Atlantic waves and distinctive volcanic scenery.
The route then continues through the vast sands of Mýrdalssandur and Skeiðarársandur, landscapes shaped by glaciers, volcanic eruptions and powerful glacial floods. As Vatnajökull National Park comes into view, guests enter a region dominated by Europe's largest glacier, where mountains, ice and wilderness combine to create some of Iceland's most impressive scenery.
Overnight: Southeast Iceland
Day 5 – Fjallsárlón Kayaking & Glacier Landscapes
Experience one of the highlights of the journey with a kayaking excursion on Fjallsárlón Glacier Lagoon.
Surrounded by floating icebergs and towering glacier walls, paddle through one of Iceland's most breathtaking natural settings. The lagoon sits at the foot of Fjallsjökull, an outlet glacier of Vatnajökull, providing a remarkable perspective on Iceland's frozen landscapes and the forces that continue to shape them.
Following the kayaking experience, explore the wider glacier region, including the famous Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon and nearby Diamond Beach, where fragments of ice wash ashore on black volcanic sands. Together, these sites showcase the dramatic meeting of ice, ocean and volcanic geology that defines Southeast Iceland.
Overnight: Southeast Iceland
Day 6 – Skaftafell & Return Through South Iceland
Spend the morning exploring the remarkable landscapes of Skaftafell, a scenic area within Vatnajökull National Park known for its glacier views, mountain peaks and hiking trails.
As the journey continues westward, travel through vast lava fields, glacier outwash plains and fertile agricultural regions that reveal the powerful natural forces that have shaped Iceland throughout the centuries. Along the way, there are opportunities to stop at scenic viewpoints and appreciate the ever-changing landscapes of the South Coast.
Return to the Hella or Hvolsvöllur area, surrounded by some of Iceland’s most famous volcanoes and river valleys.
Overnight: South Iceland
Day 7 – Buggy Adventure in Þórsmörk
Today is dedicated to exploring the dramatic wilderness of Þórsmörk, one of Iceland’s premier outdoor destinations.
Nestled between the glaciers Eyjafjallajökull, Mýrdalsjökull and Tindfjallajökull, this spectacular valley is known for its rugged mountain ridges, glacial rivers and thriving vegetation. Reaching the area is an adventure in itself, requiring river crossings and travel through remote terrain.
A guided buggy tour offers an exciting way to explore the region, following trails through volcanic landscapes shaped by the eruption of Eyjafjallajökull in 2010. Along the way, enjoy sweeping views of glaciers, valleys and black sand plains that highlight the raw power and beauty of Iceland’s interior.
Overnight: South Iceland
Day 8 – Borgarfjörður & Snowmobiling on Langjökull
Travel to West Iceland and the historic region of Borgarfjörður, known for its geothermal activity, waterfalls and saga heritage.
From Húsafell, head into the highlands surrounding Langjökull, Iceland’s second-largest glacier. Here, embark on a snowmobiling adventure across the glacier’s expansive ice fields, enjoying breathtaking views over the surrounding mountains and wilderness.
Following the excursion, discover some of Borgarfjörður’s natural highlights, including Deildartunguhver, Europe’s most powerful hot spring, and the beautiful Hraunfossar waterfalls, where water emerges through an ancient lava field.
Overnight: Borgarfjörður
Day 9 – Snæfellsnes & Vatnshellir Cave
Explore the diverse landscapes of the Snæfellsnes Peninsula, often referred to as “Iceland in Miniature” due to the variety of natural attractions found within a relatively compact region.
Travel past fishing villages, dramatic coastlines and lava fields beneath the glacier-capped peak of Snæfellsjökull, which famously inspired Jules Verne’s Journey to the Center of the Earth. Highlights may include Arnarstapi, Djúpalónssandur and the iconic mountain Kirkjufell.
One of the day’s adventures is a guided descent into Vatnshellir Cave, an ancient lava tube formed thousands of years ago during a volcanic eruption. Exploring the cave reveals a hidden world of lava formations and volcanic geology beneath the peninsula’s rugged surface.
Return to Reykjavík for a farewell dinner celebrating the experiences and adventures of the past 9 days.
Overnight: Reykjavík
Day 10 – Departure
Transfer to Keflavík International Airport for departure.
Depart Iceland having experienced its landscapes from every angle: on foot, by kayak, by buggy, by snowmobile and beneath the surface of an ancient lava field.
Additional nights in the Mývatn area or along the north coast
Ideal For
This program is particularly well suited for:
- Adventure travel groups
- Hiking and outdoor clubs
- University and student groups
- Special interest groups
- Travellers seeking hands-on experiences in nature
- Smaller groups
Flexibility
This itinerary can be adjusted depending on arrival point, travel pace, and season. The route can be combined with other regions or extended to include additional areas in North or East Iceland. Our team will tailor the route to match your timeframe and interests, while maintaining a clear and well-paced structure
Photos of the tour
Tour Highlights
List of services
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Explore Iceland’s most iconic sights, including the Golden Circle, Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon, and Skógafoss
Explore Iceland’s most iconic sights, including the Golden Circle, Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon, and Skógafoss
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Journey through remote East Fjord villages and dramatic coastlines
Journey through remote East Fjord villages and dramatic coastlines
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Hike black sand beaches, volcanic canyons, and behind powerful waterfalls
Hike black sand beaches, volcanic canyons, and behind powerful waterfalls
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Soak in geothermal spas like Vök Baths and Mývatn Nature Baths
Soak in geothermal spas like Vök Baths and Mývatn Nature Baths
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Optional adventures: glacier hiking, whale watching, horseback riding & more
Optional adventures: glacier hiking, whale watching, horseback riding & more
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Stay in locally run guesthouses and boutique countryside hotels
Stay in locally run guesthouses and boutique countryside hotels
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Travel with a private guide—your expert for stories, safety, and flexibility
Travel with a private guide—your expert for stories, safety, and flexibility
Tour Highlights
Nature's Symphony
Faces of Humanity
Sands of Time
Beyond Boundaries
Tour Highlights
List of services
-
Explore Iceland’s most iconic sights, including the Golden Circle, Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon, and Skógafoss
Explore Iceland’s most iconic sights, including the Golden Circle, Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon, and Skógafoss
-
Journey through remote East Fjord villages and dramatic coastlines
Journey through remote East Fjord villages and dramatic coastlines
-
Hike black sand beaches, volcanic canyons, and behind powerful waterfalls
Hike black sand beaches, volcanic canyons, and behind powerful waterfalls
-
Soak in geothermal spas like Vök Baths and Mývatn Nature Baths
Soak in geothermal spas like Vök Baths and Mývatn Nature Baths
-
Optional adventures: glacier hiking, whale watching, horseback riding & more
Optional adventures: glacier hiking, whale watching, horseback riding & more
-
Stay in locally run guesthouses and boutique countryside hotels
Stay in locally run guesthouses and boutique countryside hotels
-
Travel with a private guide—your expert for stories, safety, and flexibility
Travel with a private guide—your expert for stories, safety, and flexibility
Questions, custom trip ideas?
We’re here to help.
We’re a small Icelandic team that loves planning unforgettable journeys. Whether you're ready to book, have questions about a tour, or want to build something custom — just reach out. We’ll get back to you quickly with honest answers and expert advice.
- Email: info@valaadventure.is
- Phone: +354 515 1520
- Office Hours: Monday–Friday, 9:00–17:00 GMT
Outside those hours? Leave us a message,
we always respond within one business day.
