Pickup at your hotel in Reykjavik. On this day we will drive along the famous Golden Circle of South Iceland.

Our first stop is Thingvellir where the forces of the Great Atlantic Rift are clearly visible. This is where the North American and European tectonic plates drift apart at a rate of 2-6 cm per year. Thingvellir is also the place where the ancient Icelandic parliament was established in 930.

Then we head to the Geysir hot spring area, home to the famous Geysir hot spring from which all other geysers take their name. Geysir is no longer active, but another hot spring, Strokkur, erupts every few minutes.

Continue to Friðheimar, a unique geothermal greenhouse where you'll see how tomatoes and other plants are grown year-round using sustainable energy.

Then, marvel at Gullfoss, the majestic golden waterfall, renowned for its breathtaking beauty and powerful cascades.

We then drive to our accommodation near the town of Vik, where we will stay for 2 nights. Hunt for the Northern Lights in the evening. This excursion depends on the weather and aurora activity on the day and could be postponed to the second night in the countryside.

We head east, along the southern shore, to the unique Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon. The Lagoon developed around 60 years ago with a continuous process of calving and falling icebergs from the glacier tongue Breiðamerkurjökull. These icebergs are seen in two shades: milky white and bright blue, an interplay of light and ice crystals. The Lagoon is filled with fishes that drift in from the sea along with the tides. Seals gather in large numbers at the mouth of the Lagoon to catch the fish during winter, which is a sight to be seen.

Located nearby, visit the Diamond Beach, renowned for its stunning black sand covered with sparkling icebergs that have washed ashore. These icebergs, originating from the glacier lagoon, create a breathtaking contrast against the dark volcanic sand, making it a popular spot for photographers and nature enthusiasts. The ever-changing landscape of ice fragments glistening in the sunlight provides a unique and mesmerizing experience.

On the return journey, travel through the stunning Vatnajökull National Park. This vast protected area is home to Europe’s largest glacier, dramatic mountain peaks, and powerful waterfalls cascading into deep valleys. The landscape is shaped by both ice and fire, with signs of ancient volcanic activity visible amid the lush green vegetation and glacial rivers. It’s a place where Iceland’s raw natural forces come together to create truly breathtaking scenery.

Overnight stay in a hotel near the village of Vík

On this day, we will enjoy a ride along the south coast of Iceland. This coastal road offers views of glacier tongues, waterfalls, rugged hills, black sand beaches, and its famous volcanoes. We visit the black sand beach at Reynisfjara to view the geological formation and the smashing waves. Be careful not to step too close as the waves can be dangerous.

Next, stop and admire the majestic Skógafoss Waterfall. Skógafoss is one of Iceland's largest and most iconic waterfalls, located on the Skógá River in the south of the country. It plunges 60 metres (200 feet) over a rocky cliff, creating a powerful and picturesque cascade. On sunny days, the spray from Skógafoss often produces vivid rainbows, adding to its natural beauty and making it a popular destination for visitors and photographers alike.

Next we stop at Seljalandsfoss Waterfall. Here you can walk behind the waterfall but dress well, as the water mist behind the waterfall can make you wet.

The final highlight before getting back to Reykjavik is the spectacular Blue Lagoon. The Blue Lagoon is on the National Geographic list of 25 wonders of the world, claiming it is a geothermal gift of nature. Enjoy soaking in the mineral-rich water with its fine silica mud experience (this is an optional extra).

Late afternoon arrival back at your hotel in Reykjavík. Enjoy the evening at your leisure in your capital.