Iceland, the land of glaciers, volcanoes, and roaring waterfalls, is the perfect destination for an unforgettable adventure. On my 8-day Iceland group trip along the iconic Ring Road, you’ll have the chance to experience the incredible diversity of this island of fire and ice up close.
From the magical glacier lagoon Jökulsárlón and stunning waterfalls like Skógafoss to the bubbling geothermal wonders of Hverir, every day offers a new highlight. And since this is a winter trip, you’ll have the chance to catch a glimpse of the magical Northern Lights every evening.
This Iceland group trip is perfect for anyone who wants to experience the unique contrasts of the island in just one week – all in a personal and authentic way.
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Iceland Group Trip
In today’s blog post, I’ll give you a brief overview of each day of our Iceland group trip so you can get an idea of what to expect if you’re thinking about joining the next one.
This group trip is a collaboration with Arctic Adventures, a travel agency specializing in day tours and multi-day adventures. My next group trip to Iceland is planned for November 2025. Once the exact dates are finalized, you’ll find all the details here.
Day 1: The Iceland Group Trip Adventure Begins – Arrival in Reykjavík
Day 1 at a glance
- 1 Night in Reykjavík
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Arrival in Iceland
Meet your group
Welcome dinner - Storm Hotel
The first day of your Iceland group trip is all about arriving in Reykjavík. Thanks to my international community on Instagram, our groups are always a vibrant mix of travelers. People from Germany, the US, the UK, Greece, and other European countries all gather in Reykjavík. Although we’ve already gotten to know each other a bit through WhatsApp and group calls, today is the exciting moment when we meet in person for the first time.
You’ll spend your first night in Reykjavík, Iceland’s vibrant capital. The city is full of charming boutiques, cozy cafés, and restaurants – and it’s home to some of the best vanilla and cinnamon buns you could ever wish for. Spend your afternoon leisurely strolling through the colorful streets and soaking in the city’s unique charm.
In the evening, we’ll head to our welcome dinner to enjoy Iceland’s fresh and creative cuisine while getting to know your fellow travelers. But the first day isn’t over yet!
November is one of the best months to see the Northern Lights, so later that evening, we’ll be picked up for a guided northern lights tour outside the city. Our guide will stay in close contact with colleagues to find the best spots, maximizing our chances of witnessing this magical phenomenon. You might have to be patient, as we were, but passing the time with hot cocoa and Icelandic schnapps makes the wait enjoyable. And once the Northern Lights finally appear, you’ll see that it was worth every moment.
Day 2: Golden Circle and Iceland’s South Coast
Day 2 at a glance
- 1 night in Vik
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Þingvellir National Park
Geysers
Gullfoss Waterfall
Seljalandsfoss Waterfall
Skógafoss Waterfall
Reynisfjara Black Sand Beach - Hotel Katla
Today marks the start of your first full day on the Iceland group trip, and you’ll make the most of every minute of sunlight that November has to offer.
Your first stop is Þingvellir National Park, where you can walk between the tectonic plates of Europe and North America. A UNESCO World Heritage Site, Þingvellir is not only geologically fascinating but also rich in historical significance.
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Next, you’ll visit the Geysir Geothermal Area, where you’ll be in awe of the Strokkur Geysir, which erupts a water fountain into the sky every few minutes. You may have seen images of it on social media, but witnessing it in person is truly a sight to behold!
Next, we’ll visit some of my favorite waterfalls in Iceland. First, we’ll stop at Gullfoss, one of the most powerful waterfalls in the country. The thundering water cascades in two stages into a deep gorge, creating an unforgettable natural spectacle. Especially during the winter, it looks truly magical.
At Seljalandsfoss, you can walk along a small path behind the waterfall during the summer months. However, due to the weather conditions in winter, this isn’t always possible.
The last waterfall for today is Skógafoss. I’m always amazed by its size and power. If you’re feeling adventurous, you can climb the stairs to the top and enjoy the view from above.
To end the day, you’ll visit Reynisfjara Black Sand Beach, which offers a dramatic backdrop with its black lava sand, basalt columns, and the roaring waves of the North Atlantic.
- Your guide will remind you of this, but please be cautious at the black sand beach and avoid getting too close to the water’s edge. Visitors often underestimate the power and pull of the waves, which leads to accidents.
In the evening, you’ll arrive at Hotel Katla in Vík. After an action-packed day, you can relax here and recharge for the next adventures. And of course, keep an eye out for the Northern Lights. Every evening after dinner, we’d take a little walk around the hotel, hoping to catch a glimpse of them.
Day 3: Exploring an Ice Cave – Highlight of your Iceland Group Trip
Day 3 at a glance
- 1 night in Höfn
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Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon
Diamond Beach
Visit to an Ice Cave - Hotel Jökull
Today, in my opinion, is one of the absolute highlights of your Iceland group trip. The day kicks off with a drive through Vatnajökull National Park, a stunning area filled with untouched nature, massive glaciers, and waterfalls. The views are so incredible that you’ll want to stop and take it all in.
Your first stop is the Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon, a place that feels like it’s straight out of a movie. Huge blue icebergs float serenely in the water, and if you’re lucky, you might even spot some seals playing among the ice.
Just across from the lagoon is Diamond Beach, named for the ice chunks that wash up on the shore, sparkling like gems against the black sand.
But the real highlight of the day is the tour of one of Iceland’s famous ice caves. The journey there in a 4×4 is an adventure in itself as your driver takes you through snowy landscapes and rough terrain. Once you arrive, you’ll get a quick safety briefing and your gear, and then it’s time to explore. The ice cave we visited had only been discovered ten days before our tour, and it was absolutely massive, with several incredible domes. We were left speechless—everywhere you looked, the ice was glistening in different shades of blue and white, and the light coming through the ice created such a magical atmosphere.
You’ll spend the night in Höfn, a town famous for its lobster dishes. If you’re craving lobster pasta or lobster pizza, this is definitely the place to indulge!
Day 4: Off to Iceland’s East Fjords
Day 4 at a glance
- 1 night in Fljótsdalur
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Hvalnes Viewpoint
Djúpivogur
Hengifoss Waterfall - Wilderness Center
Today, you’ll experience a day filled with a wide variety of sights, leading you through the East Fjords to our unique accommodation at the Wilderness Center.
The morning begins with a stop at Hvalnes, a coastal area known for its black sand beaches and stunning views of the Atlantic. The viewpoint near the lighthouse is the perfect place to breathe in deeply and enjoy the raw beauty of Iceland’s nature during sunrise.
As we continued our tour in November, the landscape changed drastically. The wind picked up, the temperatures dropped, and suddenly we were driving through snowy and icy terrain.
Next, we drive through the charming East Fjords, with a brief stop in Djúpivogur, a small fishing village known for its relaxed atmosphere and sculptural art installations. Take some time to soak in the picturesque surroundings, and maybe find a few Icelandic souvenirs.
A real highlight today is Hengifoss, one of the tallest waterfalls in Iceland. A one-hour hike will lead you to an impressive viewpoint. The waterfall cascades over rocks with distinct red layers of volcanic ash, which is normally an incredible sight. However, since it had snowed unusually heavily in November, the waterfall was quite frozen. So, while the hike was a bit frosty, the views of Iceland’s rugged landscape were still breathtaking.
In the evening, you’ll arrive at the Wilderness Center, a place that feels like stepping back in time. Every detail here is thoughtfully designed to reflect Iceland’s rural life from earlier centuries. There’s a small museum where you can learn more about the region’s history and traditions, and the cozy rooms provide a perfect place to relax.
The dinner is a special experience: a traditional Icelandic family meal with roasted meat (also available in a vegan version), freshly baked bread, red cabbage, and fresh salads. After dinner, you can unwind in the large hot tub under the starry sky or relax in the sauna, enjoying the day in a warm, familial atmosphere.
- If you're interested in joining one of my upcoming group trips, be sure to check out my group travel account on Instagram! You'll find insights from past tours, reviews from participants, and all the details about upcoming trips.
Day 5: Hot Springs – A Must-Do on Your Iceland Group Trip
Day 5 at a glance
- 1 Night in Akureyri
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Stuðlagil Canyon
Mývatn Nature Baths
Dettifoss Waterfall - Hotel Kea
Today offers the perfect mix of spectacular natural wonders and relaxing moments, giving you a chance to explore the unique beauty of Iceland’s northeastern region.
The day starts with a visit to the stunning Stuðlagil Canyon. The basalt columns that rise along the turquoise river Jökulsá á Brú create a scene that almost feels surreal. After a short hike, you’ll reach the best viewpoints, where you can admire the canyon’s unique geometry and colors. This place is definitely one of my favorites, and I’d love to experience it in the summer someday.
The highlight of the day awaits you in the afternoon: the Mývatn Nature Baths. These hot springs offer a much more relaxed alternative to the famous Blue Lagoon, and they’re far less touristy. Surrounded by the picturesque landscape of Lake Mývatn, you can unwind in the pleasantly warm, mineral-rich pools or sip a drink at the bar.
You’ll end the day at Goðafoss, the “Waterfall of the Gods.” At every waterfall we stopped at on the Iceland group trip, I was once again blown away. Each one is more beautiful than the last.
Day 6: On the Trail of the Humpback Whales
Day 6 at a glance
- 1 Night in Hvammstangi
- Whale Watching Boat Tour
- Hótel Laugarbakki
Honestly, today was probably my favorite day of the whole Iceland group trip – and I’m not one to throw around superlatives often. But everything just clicked today: amazing nature, fascinating wildlife, and of course, an unforgettable Northern Lights finale.
The day starts with a whale watching boat tour from Dalvík. The boat ride alone is worth it, as you cruise past towering mountains and the endless North Atlantic. And then, the whales – so many humpback whales at once! There’s never a guarantee you’ll see them, but the guides at Arctic Adventures are absolute pros, and there are always whales around Iceland year-round. When you finally spot them, it really takes your breath away. Watching these massive creatures up close as they breach and flick their flippers is something you’ll never forget. Plus, don’t worry about the cold – with thick parkas and plenty of hot chocolate, it’s not an issue at all.
After that unforgettable experience, we head to our accommodation for dinner. But the day’s not over yet! While we were having dinner, chatting about the day, someone suddenly shouted: the Northern Lights are out – and wow, they were incredible! We dropped everything, threw on our jackets, and ran outside. The lights were dancing in brilliant green across the sky – it was more intense than anything we’d seen before. Watching the Northern Lights with the group made it that much more special.
Day 7: A Grand Finale to Your Iceland Group Trip
Day 7 at a glance
- 1 night in Reykjavík
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Grábrók Volcano Crater
Icelandic Horse Farm Visit
Deildartunguhver Geothermal Area
Hraunfossar & Barnafoss Waterfalls
Goodbye Dinner - Storm Hotel
Today marks your last full day on the Iceland group trip, and it’s packed with some amazing highlights.
The day kicks off with a short hike up to the Grábrók Volcano Crater. The path is easy to follow, and once you reach the top, you’re rewarded with a stunning view over the surrounding lava fields. The landscape looks almost otherworldly, and the crater itself is a reminder of how active the earth is beneath your feet in Iceland.
Next, we visit the famous Hraunfossar and Barnafoss waterfalls. These waterfalls are straight out of a fairytale: the bright blue water sparkles against the black lava rock, surrounded by moss and trees. It almost feels like you’re in the Frozen movie set!
The real surprise of the day was our visit to an Icelandic horse farm. We had the chance to meet these beautiful animals up close, pet them, and learn about their care and history. Icelandic horses, with their distinctive manes and friendly nature, are truly special, and this visit felt like a little hidden gem.
In the afternoon, we made a stop at Deildartunguhver, Europe’s largest hot spring area. It’s amazing to experience the raw power of the earth firsthand: steam rises from the ground, water bubbles away, and you can feel the energy of this special place all around you.
Back in Reykjavík, we wrap up the trip with a final dinner together. Reykjavík has so many great food options, and you can also enjoy a drink at one of the many pubs or bars around the city. Tonight, you’ll stay again at the Storm Hotel, centrally located and the perfect base for your last night in Reykjavík.
Day 8: The End of Your Iceland Group Trip
Today, it’s time to head back home. Your private bus will take you and the other travelers to the airport, and in about five hours, you’ll be on your way back to your home country. You’ll leave with lots of new memories and probably a few tired legs.
There are no more planned activities today. You can choose to depart whenever it suits you, or extend your trip if you wish. I’d be happy to help you plan any additional activities or extend your hotel stay.
Saying goodbye might be hard – at least, it was for me. But the friendships and memories you take home from your time in Iceland will stay with you forever.
It’s also quite possible that during your trip, you may have seen not just a volcanic crater, but even an active volcano. In recent years, volcanic eruptions in Iceland have almost become a part of daily life. But the Icelanders are very well-prepared and live in harmony with nature, so these eruptions usually cause very little fuss. We even spotted an active crater from the plane, making it a final, breathtaking experience to end the trip.
Hotels During Your Iceland Group Trip
The hotels during this Iceland group trip are cozy double rooms with private spaces, perfect for unwinding after a long day with the group. You will share the rooms either with your travel partner or with another same-gender traveler from your group. Breakfast is included at every hotel, so you can start your day off strong.
Getting Around on Your Iceland Group Trip
On this group trip, we have a private driver and guide, and we’ll be exploring Iceland in a comfortable minibus. This means you won’t have to worry about navigating difficult weather conditions during Iceland’s winter. The airport transfer is arranged individually, but there’s a very good airport shuttle that will drop you directly at the hotel. I’m also happy to assist with the airport transfer, so you won’t have to worry about that.
- If you're interested in joining the next group trip to Iceland in November 2025, be sure to sign up for my newsletter. You'll receive all the latest dates, have the chance to vote on upcoming destinations and time periods, and be the first to register for the trips.
Costs of the Iceland Group Trip
Cost: 2,550 Euros in a shared double room
Included:
- All accommodations
- Breakfast
- All activities listed in the itinerary
- All transport between cities and to the respective activities
Not included:
- International flights
- Airport transfer
- Travel insurance
- Visa fees (if applicable)
- Meals not listed in the itinerary
Additional Costs:
During the group trip, there is no time for extra activities between days 2 and 7, as the itinerary is packed to make the most of our time. However, you can plan for additional activities on day 1 or day 8. Therefore, extra money will primarily be needed for meals and souvenirs. Since Iceland is a very expensive travel destination, we aim to strike a balance between street food, supermarket snacks, and mid-range restaurants. You should expect to spend around 20-35 Euros per main meal and drinks.
The Next Iceland Group Trip
I’m planning another Iceland group trip in November 2025, so you’ll have the chance to experience the Northern Lights, watch humpback whales, and marvel at Iceland’s landscapes again next year.
If we organize another group trip to Iceland, you’ll find all the details in my newsletter.
I would be thrilled to travel with you soon!
If you have any questions or suggestions, feel free to reach out to me on Instagram.
Also, check out my blog posts on other destinations on the blog homepage.
