10-Day Diving & Sightseeing Adventure in Iceland w/Glacier Hike
Duration
10 Days
Availability
Jun - Aug
Difficulty
Moderate
Minimum Age
17 Years
Overview
Explore Iceland on land and underwater on this 10-day diving and sightseeing tour. On this tour, you’ll do six dives in five locations. You’ll also go sightseeing at some of Iceland’s most beautiful sites, including the Golden Circle, Reynisfjara Black Sand Beach, Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon, and Dettifoss Waterfall. Furthermore, you’ll visit underwater geysers, snorkel between continents, relax at a geothermal spa, hike up a glacier, and discover the beauty of a glacier lagoon on a boat tour.
Experienced divers looking to see the country, learn about the culture, and dive in otherworldly locations should book this excursion now!
- Dive in otherworldly locations and witness underwater geysers, giving you a truly unforgettable diving experience.
- Benefit from the expertise of an experienced guide who will provide valuable insights into Icelandic culture and the country's top sights.
- Included are 6 dives in 5 locations, a snorkeling tour, entry to Mývatn Nature Baths, a glacier hike, and a boat tour on a glacier lagoon.
- Customize your vacation by adding extra days or optional tours such as Blue Lagoon trips, a helicopter rides or whale-watching tours.
Included
- 9 nights of accommodation with private facilities and breakfast
- Airport transfers (Arrival and departure)
- English-speaking, expert guides
- Use of scuba cylinders and weights
- 6 dives in 5 different locations
- 1 snorkel tour
- 5-day scuba diving tour, including visits to Diamond and Golden Circle
- 2-day south coast tour
- Entrance fee to Mývatn Nature Baths
- Boat tour on Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon
- Glacier hike and use of glacier equipment
- Taxes
Not included
- Diving equipment other than air tanks and weights (can be rented)
- Additional activities
- Flights to/from Iceland
- Personal travel insurance
- Meals & drinks (unless otherwise stated)
- Any services not listed above as “Included”
Itinerary
Day 1 – Arrival
You’ll arrive at Keflavík International Airport, located in the middle of a lava field on the Reykjanes Peninsula. After you’ve collected your bags, find your bus to take you to Iceland’s capital, Reykjavík. Once in Reykjavík, you are free to explore the city. Your accommodation is centrally located, meaning you’ll be within walking distance of some of the country’s finest restaurants as well as the city’s famous nightlife.
Highlights:
- Reykjanes Peninsula
- Reykjavík
Optional Activities
- Blue Lagoon Comfort Entrance: Includes entrance to the Blue Lagoon, silica mud mask, use of towel, and 1st drink of your choice.
- Blue Lagoon Premium Entrance: Includes entrance to the Blue Lagoon, silica mud mask, use of towel, 1st drink of your choice, second mask of choice, slippers, use of bathrobe, table reservation at Lava Restaurant, and sparkling wine if dining.
Day 2 – David’s Crack at Þingvellir National Park
Today, your diving guide will pick you up in the morning and take you to Þingvellir National Park, situated between tectonic plates. Dive at Davíðsgjá, or David’s Crack, in Þingvallavatn Lake, known for its unique underwater topography with massive boulders and excellent visibility (around 100 meters). After the dive, head to Akureyri for a two-night stay.
Highlights:
- Þingvellir National Park
- Davíðsgjá Crack
- Þingvallavatn Lake
Optional Activities
- There are no optional activities for this day.
Day 3 – North Iceland’s Strýtan Vent
After breakfast, you’ll head to Eyjafjörður Fjord for a dive. On the seafloor here lies a hydrothermal vent, a sort of underwater geyser known as Strýtan. Today, you’ll explore both this 55-metre hydrothermal chimney as well as a smaller one called Arnarnesstrýtur. Strýtan and Arnarnesstrýtur are the shallowest known vents in the world, making them the only hydrothermal chimneys scuba divers can visit.
Highlights:
- Akureyri Town
- Strýtan & Arnarnesstrýtur Vents
- Keep an eye out for wolffish
Optional Activities
- There are no optional activities for this day.
Day 4 – Nesgjá Gorge & The Diamond Circle
Today, you’ll dive and snorkel in waters found on the Diamond Circle, starting at Nesgjá Gorge. This underwater fissure is relatively shallow but boasts impressive cliffs. You’ll then head to a river, Litlaá, where you’ll snorkel in geothermal waters. You’ll then stop for some sightseeing on the Diamond Circle with a stop at Mývatn Nature Baths to unwind after a busy day.
Highlights:
- Nesgjá Gorge & Litlaá River
- Dettifoss Waterfall
- Námaskarð Geothermal Area
- Mývatn Nature Baths
Optional Activities
- There are no optional activities for this day.
Day 5 – Marine Wildlife in North Iceland
Today, you’ll go back to Eyjafjörður Fjord for a dive at either the French Gardens or The Wall. Both sites are absolutely stunning but rarely visited and thus considered hidden gems amongst divers. Here, you’ll see strange geological formations and an abundance of wildlife, including colorful anemones, redfish, lumpsuckers, and wolffish. After the dive, it is time to head back to Reykjavík.
Highlights:
- Eyjafjörður Fjord
- Colorful anemones
- Redfish, lumpsuckers, and wolffish
Optional Activities
- There are no optional activities for this day.
Day 6 – The Golden Circle with Silfra Fissure
No trip to Iceland can be complete without visiting the Golden Circle. And there is no better way to wrap up a diving tour of Iceland than with a dive in the country’s most famous dive site, Silfra Fissure. Luckily, you’ll be doing both today. At the end of the day, you’ll return to your accommodation in Reykjavík and bid farewell to your diving guide.
Highlights:
- Þingvellir National Park
- Silfra Fissure
- Geysir Geothermal Area
- Gullfoss Waterfall
Optional Activities
- There are no optional activities for this day.
Day 7 – The South Coast & Glacier Hike
After a night in the city, it is time to head back to the countryside. In the morning, a guide will pick you up in a small but comfortable minivan and take you on a 2-day tour of Iceland’s South Coast. You’ll explore waterfalls and black sand beaches before strapping on crampons for a glacier hike. You’ll then spend the night on the South Coast.
Highlights:
- Seljalandsfoss & Skógafoss Waterfalls
- Skaftafell Nature Reserve
- Glacier Hike
Optional Activities
- There are no optional activities for this day.
Day 8 – Boat Tour on a Glacier Lagoon
Today, after breakfast, you’ll head out to explore Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon, where enormous icebergs float on a bright blue lake. Though seeing the bergs from the lagoon’s shores is an amazing experience, an even better one is seeing them up close on a boat tour. And that is exactly what you’ll do. You’ll then head to Reykjavík, visiting a few black sand beaches on the way.
Highlights:
- Boat tour on Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon
- Diamond Beach
- Reynisfjara Black Sand Beach
Optional Activities
- There are no optional activities for this day.
Day 9 – Free Day in Reykjavík
Today, you’ll have a whole day to explore the northernmost capital in the world, Reykjavík. Reykjavík is one of the most beautiful places in Iceland, and it’s easy to explore. The city center is very walkable, and there are many things to do here. If you need suggestions, you can always talk to your travel advisor who’s ready to help or book tours for you.
Highlights:
- Old Harbour
- Tjörnin Lake
- City Hall
Optional Activities
- Helicopter Tour over Reykjavík: Get a birds-eye view of the city. Included is a helicopter ride over Reykjavík and a landing on a nearby mountain. Minimum age is 12 years.
- Whale Watching Tour: See the whales in their natural habitat. By Reykjavík’s Old Harbour, you’ll board the boat and head to sea. Included are a professionally guided tour and warm, floatable overalls for your safety and comfort. Also included is a second try in case of no sightings. No age limit.
- Sky Lagoon Pure Pass: Unwind in the warm, geothermal waters of the Sky Lagoon. The Spa is located in Kópavogur, just a few minute’s drive from Reykjavík city center. Included in the Pure Pass is an entrance to the Sky Lagoon, the complete 7-Step Ritual, access to a public changing room, and a towel.
- Sky Lagoon Sky Pass: At the Sky Lagoon, you’ll find amazing views, a 70-meter (230 ft) infinity pool, hot and cold tubs, a sauna, a steam room, and an in-lagoon bar. Included in the Sky Pass are admission to the Sky Lagoon, the complete 7-Step Ritual, access to private changing facilities with signature Sky Lagoon amenities, and a towel.
Day 10 – Departure
Now it’s time to bid farewell and make your way home with memories you’ll never forget. If your flight leaves in the afternoon or evening, you’ll have time to explore Reykjavík a little, do a little sightseeing, or perhaps visit a museum or two. You could also visit the Blue Lagoon on your way to the airport, arriving relaxed and rejuvenated for your flight.
Highlights:
- Hallgrímskirkja Church
- Harpa Concert Hall
- Laugavegur Shopping Street
Optional Activities
- Blue Lagoon Comfort Entrance: Includes entrance to the Blue Lagoon, silica mud mask, use of towel, and 1st drink of your choice.
- Blue Lagoon Premium Entrance: Includes entrance to the Blue Lagoon, silica mud mask, use of towel, 1st drink of your choice, second mask of choice, slippers, use of bathrobe, table reservation at Lava Restaurant, and sparkling wine if dining.
Accommodation
You’ll have a choice of three accommodation levels. See details about each one in the boxes below. All accommodations for this tour have been hand-picked by our local travel experts.
Please keep in mind that hotel quality in Iceland varies between regions and that not all locations offer quality-level accommodations
Budget
Nice and comfortable rooms with shared bathroom facilities and shower located in farmhouses, guesthouses or hostels, in good locations with breakfast included. An example of this in Reykjavík would be Kex Hostel.
Comfort
Comfortable rooms in three-star hotels or quality guesthouses, centrally located, very close to popular attractions. Private bathroom and breakfast included. An example of this in Reykjavík would be Fosshotel Rauðará.
Quality
Rooms in four-star hotels or superior rooms in quality three-star hotels at fantastic locations near popular attractions. Private bathroom and breakfast is included. An example of this in Reykjavík would be Icelandair Hotel Marina.
Transportation
Personalize your Icelandic adventure by selecting from our three transportation options: a minivan, a large SUV, or a rugged super jeep. See details for each option in the boxes below. These choices represent the most common vehicles used on privately guided tours. If you have special requests or specific needs, we’re here to cater to them, ensuring your journey is uniquely tailored to you.
Mini Van
For around 7-9 passengers, ideal for small groups and families. The comfortable minivans provide a smooth and intimate ride as you discover Iceland's wonders together.
Large 4WD
For 4-5 passengers seeking a spacious and versatile option. The large SUVs are equipped to handle diverse terrains while ensuring ample room for both passengers and gear.
Super-Jeep
For up to 19 passengers. Take your adventure to the next level with a rugged super jeep. Designed to conquer Iceland's challenging landscapes, these powerful vehicles provide an exhilarating ride for the more adventurous traveler.
Map
Good to know
- Participants must have, at minimum, an Advanced SCUBA dive certification (PADI Advanced Open Water or the equivalent).
- They must also have dry suit diving certification and a logged dry suit dive within two years of the tour date OR have at least 10 logged dry suit dives within two years of the tour date and be able to provide written proof from a diving instructor of these dry suit dives.
- You will need to have read, signed, and followed directions on the Diving Medical Statement, which will be sent to you upon booking. Also, have a Diving Medical form signed off by a doctor if they are 60 or older, and sign a liability release form at the start of the tour.
- Divers must be at minimum 150cm / maximum 200cm, be at minimum 45kg / maximum 120kg, be at least 17 years of age (signature of legal guardian required for under 18-year-old participants), be physically fit, ready to wear a sometimes tight & constricting dry suit, be able to communicate in English, and not be pregnant.
- The itinerary is dependent upon road and weather conditions, so it may be altered if conditions are not favorable.
What to bring
- Warm and waterproof clothes, including long underwear and thick socks
- Good hiking shoes
- Swimsuit and towel
- Your PADI Advanced Dive Certification or equivalent
- Proof of dry suit experience. A drysuit certification or proof of a minimum 10 dry suit dives within the last year signed by an instructor
- Your diving equipment (can be rented)
