Iceland: See & Experience it ALL in 9 Days, 1st Class Custom Tours

Iceland packs an astonishing amount into this nine-day private tour, from whale watching and Dettifoss in the north to glacier ice, black beaches, volcanoes, and warm lagoons in the south. You spend less time worrying about roads and weather, and more time watching the scenery change outside your window.

I like the seasonal planning, especially the way summer can bring whale watching and Askja while winter may bring an ice cave and the Northern Lights. I also like the small maximum of eight people, plus private air-conditioned transportation that removes the stress of Icelandic driving.

The main caution is the price, $4,718.58 per person, and the amount of moving around. The plan also lists only one night of lodging as included, so you should confirm exactly which hotels and nights are covered before paying.

Key points to know before booking

• The route changes with the season: Summer may begin in Akureyri with whale watching, while the colder months shift the start to Reykjavík with horseback riding.
• The north is unusually well covered: Goðafoss, Lake Mývatn, Hverir, Dettifoss, and Askja are included in the northern portion.
• Winter brings the ice cave: From October through early June, the Vatnajökull ice cave replaces summer glacier hiking.
• You get both famous sights and serious scenery: The Golden Circle, Skógafoss, Jökulsárlón, Diamond Beach, the Blue Lagoon, and Þingvellir all appear on the route.
• The schedule is active: Hiking at Askja, Þórsmörk, volcano areas, and possibly a glacier requires moderate physical fitness.
• CharlieTheTraveler provides a highly arranged trip: Ground transport, guides, entry fees, breakfast, and the airport transfer are included, but airfare and most alcohol are not.

Why nine days makes sense in Iceland

Iceland looks compact on a map, but the distances between major sights are large, and road conditions can change quickly. This plan spreads the big sights across nine days instead of trying to rush around the Ring Road in a few exhausting days.

I appreciate the way the route uses both road travel and flights. The northern section is based around Akureyri in summer, then the trip shifts to Reykjavík by air. In the colder season, some northern sightseeing becomes a flight day trip from Reykjavík instead.

That arrangement is useful if you want to see a lot but do not want to rent a car. You avoid car hire, fuel, navigation, and the worry of driving near glaciers or through rougher mountain areas. The tradeoff is that you have less control over the daily pace. A private tour gives you flexibility within the plan, but the route is still ambitious.

The tour is limited to eight people, which is a much more personal setup than a large coach. You can expect an air-conditioned vehicle for the road portions and guides throughout the trip. The exact guide assignments are not specified, but CharlieTheTraveler is the named provider behind the arrangements.

Starting in Akureyri or Reykjavík

The starting point depends on the date and the size of your party. From mid-June through September, the advertised start is Akureyri International Airport, where the first day centers on whale watching. This northern start requires at least two people in your party and carries an added expense.

If you are traveling alone, the tour starts in Reykjavík even during summer. From October through early June, the normal starting point is also Reykjavík, with horseback riding near the capital replacing whale watching.

That distinction matters. Akureyri gives the trip a strong northern opening and makes the first two days feel more connected to Iceland’s less urban side. Reykjavík is simpler for solo travelers and for winter arrivals, but you will not receive the same summer whale-watching setup.

From September through early March, a Northern Lights night tour is also included. This is a welcome seasonal addition, but the lights are a natural event, not a guaranteed show. Cloud cover and solar activity decide the outcome.

Day 1: whale watching, horseback riding, or Northern Lights

A summer start in Akureyri gives you a full day built around whale watching. Akureyri is Iceland’s second most visited city, and its position in the north makes it a practical base for exploring the region.

During the rest of the year, horseback riding near Reykjavík takes the place of whale watching. The change is sensible because the tour is built around what the season can reasonably offer, rather than forcing the same activity year-round.

The Northern Lights outing runs from September through early March. You should dress for a long evening outside and keep your expectations realistic. The value here is having transportation arranged to a viewing area, not a promise that the sky will cooperate.

Day 2: Goðafoss, Mývatn, Hverir, and Dettifoss

The second day is one of the strongest parts of the northern route. Goðafoss, the Waterfall of the Gods, drops about 12 meters across a broad 30-meter span. It is not Iceland’s tallest waterfall, but its shape and easy viewing make it an excellent early stop.

Lake Mývatn was formed by a large basaltic lava eruption about 2,300 years ago. The area is filled with volcanic features, including lava pillars and unusual formations around the water. This is a day for looking closely, not just checking off a viewpoint.

At Hverir, you encounter a geothermal area of steaming ground and volcanic activity. It adds a different texture to the day, with the smell and heat of the earth making Iceland feel very much alive beneath your feet.

The finale is Dettifoss, reputed to be the second most powerful waterfall in Europe. Its scale is more forceful than delicate. Weather and road conditions can affect access, so the private vehicle and guide are particularly useful here.

In summer, this is a land day trip from Akureyri. From October through early June, it becomes a flight day trip from Reykjavík. If you are traveling alone, this northern circuit is handled by air even in summer.

Day 3: Askja and Viti, or Reykjavík and Sky Lagoon

Summer brings the most unusual option of the trip: a hike at Askja Caldera followed by a visit to Viti crater, where bathing in the pond is part of the plan. Askja is a remote volcanic setting, and the combination of a caldera hike and geothermal bathing is far removed from a standard city tour.

There are important conditions. Askja replaces Reykjavík sightseeing only when at least two people are traveling, and visiting it in summer costs extra. If you are alone, the day switches to Reykjavík sightseeing.

In the colder months, the day focuses on Reykjavík and includes Sky Lagoon, a stylish geothermal spa near the capital. Children under 12 are not allowed at Sky Lagoon, so families with younger children need to pay close attention to this part of the route.

The itinerary places Sky Lagoon on Day 3 or Day 4 depending on the season and party arrangement. That flexibility is practical, but it means you should confirm the exact order of activities before arrival.

Day 4: the Golden Circle in one full day

The Golden Circle is Iceland’s best-known sightseeing loop, and this tour gives it a full day from Reykjavík. You visit Gullfoss, Geysir and Strokkur, and Þingvellir National Park.

Gullfoss drops in two stages for a total height of about 32 meters. The water cuts through a rugged gorge, and viewing areas let you appreciate both the broad river and the sudden drops.

At Geysir, the original geyser gave its name to the entire class of hot springs. Nearby Strokkur is the active attraction, sending boiling water upward at intervals. The eruption can reach as high as 70 meters, though the timing and height vary.

Þingvellir is important for its rift-valley setting, where Iceland’s volcanic and tectonic forces are easy to see. It is also one of the country’s most meaningful national sites. You get a good mix here: water, geology, and Icelandic history, though the day can feel busy because the Golden Circle is so popular.

If your summer schedule includes Sky Lagoon, the spa is usually placed on this evening instead of Day 3.

Day 5: waterfalls and the black beach

Leaving Reykjavík, the route turns toward Iceland’s southeast coast. Seljalandsfoss is the first major stop, a 60-meter waterfall with a path that can take you behind the falling water into a cave-like space.

That path can be wet and slippery, so waterproof clothing and sturdy footwear are sensible. The reward is a view that feels more three-dimensional than a normal front-facing waterfall stop.

Skógafoss is broader and more forceful, dropping 60 meters across a 25-meter width. It is one of Iceland’s biggest waterfalls, and the scale is easy to appreciate from the base.

The day ends with Reynisfjara Black Sand Beach, known for its dark volcanic shore and dramatic setting. It was ranked by National Geographic among the ten most beautiful non-tropical beaches on Earth. Beauty here comes with caution, since the itinerary does not promise a long, leisurely beach stay and weather can make the coast feel severe.

You lodge in the Skaftafell area after this day. Since the package information specifically lists one night of lodging as included, ask how this overnight fits with the rest of the nine-day accommodation plan.

Day 6: Skaftafell, Jökulsárlón, and Diamond Beach

Day 6 brings the most concentrated glacier scenery. Skaftafell Nature Reserve has a setting often compared with the Alps, but its character comes from Iceland’s mix of fire and ice. The reserve gives you a chance to walk through a more varied natural area rather than stopping only at roadside viewpoints.

Jökulsárlón Glacial Lake is the signature stop. Icebergs float in the lagoon, with some rising dramatically above the water. The lake has also appeared in films including A View to a Kill, Die Another Day, Lara Croft: Tomb Raider, and Batman Begins.

Across the road, Diamond Beach shows pieces of ice washed onto the black sand. The contrast between blue-white ice and dark volcanic sand is one of the clearest visual pairings in Iceland.

In winter, the natural ice cave at Vatnajökull National Park is included. Water channels run through or beneath the glacier, creating an experience that depends heavily on seasonal conditions. The cave is closed from June through September.

Summer substitutes glacier hiking for the ice cave. Children under eight are not allowed to hike at the volcanoes, and the trip requires moderate physical fitness. Svartifoss, a striking waterfall framed by dark basalt columns, may also be added, but it is not guaranteed. Weather and other conditions decide.

Day 7: hiking in Þórsmörk

Before returning to Reykjavík, you hike in Þórsmörk Valley. The area is described as one of Iceland’s best places for hiking, with Stakkholtsgjá Canyon, Nauthúsagil Canyon, and Gígjökull Glacier among the highlights.

Seljalandsfoss may appear again on this day, depending on the route. That repeat could feel unnecessary if the schedule is tight, but it also gives you another chance to see the waterfall in different light or weather.

Þórsmörk carries a supplemental fee, so this is another cost to add to your budget. The hiking focus makes the day especially suitable for active visitors who would rather walk through Iceland’s scenery than spend every hour at a viewpoint.

You should ask how long the walks are and what footwear is required. The stated fitness level is moderate, but the exact trail length and conditions are not provided.

Day 8: volcanoes, tectonic plates, and the Blue Lagoon

The Reykjanes Peninsula offers a final day of volcanic scenery and geothermal bathing. The route includes Fagradalsfjall Volcano, Merdalir Volcano, and a hike in Geldingadalur Volcano, plus Lake Kleifarvatn.

The peninsula is a good reminder that Iceland is not just waterfalls and glaciers. You see active volcanic terrain, a lake shaped by geology, and the Bridge Between Continents, also called Midlina. The footbridge crosses a visible rift between the Eurasian and North American tectonic plates.

The Blue Lagoon provides a softer finish. You bathe in its warm geothermal water, and one alcoholic beverage is included. Children under 12 are not allowed to hike at the volcanoes, so families should confirm how the day will work for younger children.

The volcano walks may be the most demanding part of this day. Weather can also change access, and the trip provider states that poor weather may lead to a different date or a full refund.

Day 9: airport transfer from Reykjavík

The final day is simple. Transportation is arranged to take you to the airport in Reykjavík.

That removes one last logistical task, but you should still confirm the airport, pickup time, and whether your airfare matches the planned transfer. Airfare itself is not included.

What the $4,718.58 price really buys

At $4,718.58 per person, this is not a budget Iceland trip. You are paying for a private or very small group arrangement, a guide, an air-conditioned vehicle, ground transportation, entry fees, breakfast, seasonal activities, and a planned airport transfer.

The value is strongest if you do not want to drive. Iceland’s weather, long distances, and remote roads can make self-driving tiring, especially when you want to include northern waterfalls, Askja, the southeast coast, Þórsmörk, and the Reykjanes Peninsula in one trip.

The value is also stronger for a pair or small group that wants a single organized plan. Solo travelers face a different setup, since the Akureyri summer start and Askja option require at least two people and may cost more.

Read the lodging terms carefully. The included list states lodging for one night, while the experience lasts nine days and includes an overnight in the Skaftafell area. I would not assume all hotel nights are covered until the provider confirms this in writing.

Breakfast is included, but alcohol is not generally included. The exception is one alcoholic beverage at the Blue Lagoon. Airfare, travel insurance, and any required travel visa are also your responsibility.

Who should book this Iceland tour

I would recommend it to you if you want to see a large share of Iceland without renting a car, and if you value a guide who can handle the driving and changing seasonal plan.

It is particularly suited to:

• Couples or small groups seeking private transportation
• Active visitors comfortable with moderate hiking
• People who want both famous sights and remote northern stops
• Visitors who prefer an organized schedule over independent planning
• Guests willing to pay more for convenience and a small group

I would hesitate if you want a slow trip with long stays in each town. The schedule has many eight-hour touring days, plus flights and several changes of base.

Families should also check age rules carefully. Children under 12 cannot enter Sky Lagoon, children under 12 cannot hike at the volcanoes, and children under eight cannot take part in the volcano hikes or glacier hiking noted in the itinerary. The wording around some age limits should be clarified before booking.

The cancellation terms are strict close to departure: cancellation at least six full days ahead receives a full refund, two to six days ahead receives 50 percent, and cancellation within two days receives no refund. Poor weather can lead to a new date or full refund.

Should you book it?

Book this trip if your priority is seeing Iceland’s major sights in one carefully managed journey, with seasonal extras such as whale watching, Northern Lights hunting, an ice cave, or glacier hiking.

Before you commit, get three details confirmed: the full hotel plan, the extra fees for Akureyri, Askja, and Þórsmörk, and the exact seasonal itinerary for your dates. If those costs are clear and you are comfortable with long, active days, the private transportation and broad reach can justify the high price. If not, a shorter Reykjavík-based tour may give you better value and a calmer pace.

FAQ

Where does the tour start?

The listed summer meeting point is Akureyri International Airport, Flugvallarvegur, 600 Akureyri, Iceland. The tour starts in Reykjavík for solo travelers and normally starts there from October through early June.

How long does the experience last?

The experience lasts approximately nine days. Most listed touring days are about eight hours long.

How many people can join the tour?

The maximum group size is eight travelers.

Is transportation included?

Yes. Ground transportation, an air-conditioned vehicle, tour guides, and the final airport transfer in Reykjavík are included. Some portions of the itinerary use flights, but airfare is not included.

Is lodging included?

The included services list lodging for one night. An overnight in the Skaftafell area is also specified, so you should confirm which accommodation nights are covered before booking.

Is breakfast included?

Yes. Breakfast is included.

Is airfare included?

No. Airfare is not included in the price.

Is the Blue Lagoon included?

Yes. The itinerary includes bathing at the Blue Lagoon, and one alcoholic beverage there is included.

Are children allowed at Sky Lagoon?

Children under 12 years old are not allowed at Sky Lagoon.

Is the ice cave available all year?

No. The natural ice cave at Vatnajökull National Park is open during winter and is not open from June through September. Summer visits replace the ice cave with glacier hiking.

What is the cancellation policy?

You receive a full refund if you cancel at least six full days before the start time. Cancellation two to six full days ahead receives a 50 percent refund, while cancellation within two days is nonrefundable. Poor weather may result in a different date or a full refund.