Top Iceland Outdoor Activities - page 2

See Reykjavik from a different perspective on this whale-watching cruise from the Old Harbor. Board a spacious yacht, featuring panoramic viewing windows, and sail across Faxalfoi Bay, keeping your eyes peeled for marine wildlife such as minke and humpback, and maybe even orcasIf you don’t see any whales, enjoy another tour at no additional cost.

Embark on a thrilling off-road adventure to witness the majestic Katla ice cave from Vik. Venture in a 4WD vehicle across rocky terrains until you reach the magnificent Mýrdalsjökull glacier—the fourth largest ice cap in Iceland. Then, strap on the provided caving equipment and follow your guide to uncover the blue formations hidden beneath the glacier’s surface. You’ll have ample time to contemplate and photograph the majestic ice tunnels.

Both off-the-beaten-path and within the Golden Circle, Secret Lagoon hot springs live up to their evocative name. Tucked away in the small village of Fludir, the hot springs are not as popular as other nearby attractions, but offer unbeatable natural luxury and comfort, plus amenities such as changing rooms, a shower, and a bar and restaurant. Book your ticket in advance to ensure a smooth visit.

One of Iceland’s most famous natural sites, Mt. Kirkjufell is busy with visitors all day-long. This small-group tour gives you the chance to experience it without the crowds at possibly the most magical time of day: during the midnight sun. As you paddle over the still water under the glow of the midnight sun, you’ll make stops at various locations to take photos, spot wildlife or just soak up the view.

Maximize your chances of seeing whales in the wild on this half-day boat cruise from Akureyri. Iceland’s longest fjord is known for attracting humpback whales; travel aboard a specially adapted ship that covers all the likely viewing areas to increase the odds of seeing them. Choose from several departure times to fit your schedule, and stay cozy on board with thermal overalls, and raincoats or blankets.

Soaking in the mineral-rich waters of the Blue Lagoon is high on the lists of most visitors to Iceland, but the famed site is often fully booked. Ensure you have a relaxing experience by pre-booking this package, which grants you access to the geothermal waters, a towel, rejuvenating silica mud mask, locker, sauna and steam room, plus a soda or pop from the in-water bar.

See the Golden Circle—and then enhance your experience with a snowmobile excursion—on this combination tour from Reykjavik. In addition to visiting the UNESCO-listed Thingvellir National Park, Gullfoss waterfall, and Geysir geothermal area, get your adrenaline racing by zipping across Iceland's second-largest ice cap with an exhilarating snowmobile ride on the Langjökull glacier. Enjoy convenient hotel pickup to start your adventure with ease.

Watching molten lava up close usually means a volcano and a lot of luck. A Lava Show recreates it indoors in Reykjavik, with a host pouring real molten lava in a controlled setting so there's something to see, whatever the weather. Book ahead to secure seats, or take the premium upgrade for balcony seating, drinks, and a lava keepsake.

Reykjavik is an ideal destination for whale-watching, but large boats can’t get close to the action, meaning you might spend longer squinting through a pair of binoculars than actually spotting wildlife. On this small-group cruise through Faxaflói Bay, cut through the water in a rigid inflatable boat (RIB), which lets you maneuver easily and follow humpback whales, porpoises, and dolphins. Admire city views along the way.

Many glacier tours in Vatnajökull National Park require travelers to walk from the parking lot to the glacier terminus, eating into their time on the ice. On this tour, maximize your time on Falljökull glacier by traveling as near as possible in a four-wheel-drive vehicle. Explore moulins, crevasses, and other formations in the company of an Association of Icelandic Mountain Guides-certified guide.

Because they tend to nest on rocky cliffs close to water, seeing puffins in their natural habitat is sometimes tricky. Increase your chances on this tour from Reykjavik that takes you out on a boat to to either Akurey or Lundey, two islands that are well known for their plentiful birdlife. In addition to puffins you have the opportunity to view eider ducks, arctic terns, guillemots, and cormorants.

Skip the buses and walking tours and brave Iceland's glacial waters on this exhilarating rafting adventure near Iceland's Golden Circle. After meeting your guide and gearing up, navigate thrilling rapids through spectacular landscapes. Cap off your expedition by relaxing in a steaming hot tub or sauna with a well-earned beer. Located conveniently near Gulfoss waterfall, this journey promises unforgettable, only-in-Iceland thrills.

This evening tour from Reykjavík vastly improves your chances of seeing the northern lights. Your guide uses live data and forecasts to take you to the best locations to potentially spot the lights. Tuck into traditional Icelandic pastries and hot chocolate while you wait, and take home photos of you taken during the evening.

Follow the trail of the Vikings from Reykjavik toward Selfoss and Hvollsvöllur on this south coast of Iceland day tour. Travel south where mountain glaciers and waterfalls provide scenery on one side, and beaches of black volcanic sand frame wild seas on the other. Stops at Seljalandsfoss, Skógafoss, and Reynisfjara are included along with some lesser-known, yet equally dramatic, sights through the day.

Immerse yourself in the natural beauty, flora, and fauna of Iceland on a full-day excursion along the country's south coast. Onboard a climate-controlled coach with your naturalist guide, visit sites including the Seljalandsfoss and Skógafoss waterfalls, as well as the Reynisdrangar rock formations near the charming coastal town of Vík. All activities and round-trip transportation from Reykjavik are included.

Seeing Iceland’s south coast in a single day can feel rushed or impersonal on large coach tours, but this small-group experience offers a more comfortable and flexible way to explore. Travel from Reykjavik in a luxury minibus through volcanic landscapes, stopping at highlights such as Seljalandsfoss and Skogafoss waterfalls, the black-sand beach of Reynisfjara, and the Solheimajökull glacier.

Discover Iceland’s most iconic wildlife with a 2 hour whale and puffin tour from Húsavík on an RIB speedboat. Enjoy views of the Skjálfandi Bay as you skim along the coast, covering an expansive territory in the high-powered craft. Watch for massive blue whales and acrobatic humpbacks, and learn about life beneath the surface from your experienced guide. During the breeding season of mid-April through mid-August, visit ‘Puffin Island’ to find a thriving colony of brightly-colored birds before returning to Húsavík.

Reykjavik is a fascinating city, but knowing where to go and what not to miss isn’t always obvious to first time visitors. On this small-group walking tour, you'll get familiar with the streets of the city—and discover many of its most important landmarks and attractions—all while your guide shares hidden stories and secrets many visitors miss

Kickstart your Iceland adventure on this small-group guided walking tour, getting you familiar with Iceland's capital city. As you wander the streets with your guide, you'll learn about Iceland’s early history at the Anarholl Statue, see Laugavegur main street, Austurvollur Square, Lake Tjornin, Hallgrim’s Church, take in plenty of street art, and more. Along the way, try a traditional Icelandic snack: schnapps with dried fish.

Swim between two continents on a snorkeling tour of the Silfra fissure in Thingvellir National Park. Choose from multiple daily departure times and head to the UNESCO-listed National Park to snorkel in the turquoise lake where the North American and Eurasian plates meet. Alongside a PADI-certified guide, explore the underwater wonderland of Thingvellir National Park, part of Iceland’s Golden Circle.

Do more than just admire Iceland's beloved horses during your stay in the country—take one for a spin on this horseback riding tour with transportation from Reykjavik. Atop a sturdy, sure-footed Icelandic horse, you’ll take a beautiful ride in the countryside just outside the city. This tour is suitable for beginners and experts alike.

Watch for nimble humpbacks and massive blue whales on this whale watching adventure from Húsavík on a traditional Icelandic oak boat. Enjoy stunning views of the Skjálfandi Bay and Vík mountains as you explore the coastline, a thriving pilgrimage place for marine mammals in the summer season. Learn about Iceland’s wildlife and culture with live commentary from your experienced guide.

Maximize your time in Iceland with a tour that takes you beyond Reykjavik and into the country's wild landscapes. Venture out with a local guide to explore the Snaefellsness Peninsula to explore black sand beaches, dramatic lava fields, rugged coastline, traditional villages, and more. Uncover spots you'd miss if exploring independently, learn about Iceland's history, and check off plenty of must-see locations in just one day.

Explore two of Iceland’s most popular attractions in just one day during this time-saving trip to the Golden Circle and the Blue Lagoon. Visit Thingvellir National Park, where the North American and European tectonic plates meet; the 65-foot (20-meter) geyser at Strokkur; the mighty Gullfoss waterfall; and the Kerid volcanic crater lake. Then, wind down from the sightseeing with a soothing soak at the famous Blue Lagoon.