Things to do in Eastern Region, Iceland

Explore breathtaking ice formations and glacier mills on this guided tour in Skaftafell. Marvel at a naturally-formed, blue ice cave and learn how glaciers are formed. A professional hiking guide will take you to the base of Falljökull, an outlet glacier of the Vatnajökull ice cap, and lead you up to the cave. On a clear day, be sure to look out for Hvannadalshnúkur in the distance.

Jump onboard a Super Jeep to witness one of the worlds rarest natural phenomenons: a blue Ice Cave. Enjoy this fantastic winter experience in Vatnajökull National Park in Southern Iceland, departing from Jökulsárlón, the glacier lagoon.  The tour starts at the famous Jökulsárlón - Glacier Lagoon. There you will jump on a Super Jeep that will take you up to the glacier. From there you will be able to walk inside one of the amazing Blue Ice Caves. Standing inside an ancient glacier and witnessing the blue ice all around you is a truly unique experience. This stunning phenomenon is a must see for anyone visiting Iceland during wintertime and one of Iceland's most famous tours.

Embark on an unforgettable adventure into the heart of Iceland’s icy wilderness. Your journey begins in Skaftafell, where you’ll meet your expert glacier guide and prepare for an awe-inspiring experience. After a brief introduction and safety briefing, you’ll be outfitted with the necessary glacier gear, including crampons, helmets, and ice axes, ensuring a secure and thrilling expedition. From Skaftafell, travel to the magnificent Falljökull glacier tongue, a stunning outlet of the Vatnajökull ice cap. As you set foot on the glacier, take in the breathtaking surroundings—towering ice formations, deep crevasses, and vast expanses of frozen beauty. Your adventure continues with a scenic glacier hike toward the blue ice cave, a natural wonder formed by meltwater carving through the ancient ice. Along the way, marvel at the dramatic landscapes, where layers of ice shimmer in hues of blue and white, constantly shifting with the forces of nature. Once you arrive at the cave, you’ll have approximately 30 minutes to explore its mesmerizing interior. Capture stunning photos of the translucent blue ice, sculpted by time and nature, as your guide shares fascinating insights into the glacier’s formation and evolution. After soaking in the otherworldly beauty of the ice cave, retrace your steps and hike back across the glacier. Traverse an adventurous terrain of rugged ice ridges, moulins (deep ice shafts), and frozen valleys, offering an exhilarating experience as you witness the raw power of Iceland’s glacial landscapes. Since the glaciers are constantly shifting and evolving, new caves form in different locations each year, making every visit a unique experience. This extraordinary journey into Vatnajökull’s frozen world promises a once-in-a-lifetime experience, combining adventure, natural beauty, and geological wonders. Whether you're an avid explorer or a first-time adventurer, this tour offers an unparalleled opportunity to witness Iceland’s icy marvels up close. Don’t miss your chance to step inside a breathtaking ice cave and hike across one of Europe’s most spectacular glaciers!

Upon disembarkation in Seyðisfjörður, meet your local guide, ensuring the tour fits perfectly within your cruise's docking window. Venture inland through idyllic countryside to visit the iconic Stuðlagil canyon, a symbol of the natural beauty of East Iceland. Marvel at the sheer walls composed of enormous basalt columns up to 30m high, overlooking the dream-like turquoise waters of the glacial river at the canyon, hidden in the middle of the Jökla River. Then, head back east toward your port, stopping at Gufufoss waterfall, a hidden gem that resembles the more famous southern falls at Skógafoss. Though smaller, Gufufoss stands impressively at 27m in height. Enjoy the tranquil surroundings and click photos from various angles. Finally, return to Seyðisfjörður, where you will be dropped back at your ship. If time allows, explore the famous Rainbow Road before boarding your ship.

Join a guided glacier hike on Vatnajökull, one of Europe’s largest glaciers, and experience its breathtaking landscapes up close. This longer, moderately difficult hike is perfect for those ready to explore Vatnajökull Glacier beyond the basics With a certified glacier guide, embark on a scenic and exhilarating trek to the mesmerizing icefall of Falljökull, where frozen waters sculpt stunning natural ice formations. Your adventure begins with a scenic walk through dramatic glacial terrain, shaped over centuries by ice and volcanic forces. Upon reaching the glacier’s tongue, gear up with crampons and safety equipment, receive a safety briefing, and prepare for the ultimate ice adventure. Ascend towards the towering icefall, the very feature that gives Falljökull its name, and explore an otherworldly landscape filled with jagged ice formations and shimmering ice sculptures. Capture unforgettable photos of the rugged icefall and learn fascinating insights about glacier formation and its constant transformation due to natural forces. This immersive experience offers a rare opportunity to walk on ancient ice and witness one of Iceland’s most spectacular natural wonders. Book now for an epic Vatnajökull glacier experience!

THE TOUR Embark on the Ice Cave Exploration Tour and spend 5-6 hours with one of our experienced guides as you hike Breiðamerkurjökull, an outlet glacier of the renowned Vatnajökull. This glacier is also famous for its breathtaking views over the Glacier Lagoon. Throughout the tour, your guide will share insights into the area’s natural wonders and provide a glimpse into Icelandic culture. As you explore, you’ll witness the glacier’s stunning landscapes, including crevasses, moulins, and deep ice caves. Rated as a Medium-difficulty tour, the hike covers approximately 4-6 km, depending on the group’s pace and conditions. Before stepping onto the glacier, your guide will equip you with all necessary safety gear and ensure you’re well-prepared for the adventure. This experience primarily consists of visits to different ice caves and ice formations as well as a glacier walk, allowing you to discover the glacier’s unique formations up close. It is highly advisable to take a camera, or at least a phone to capture the amazing moments because it will not be long before the glacial formations change or even disappear as they normally do. WHICH ICE CAVE DO WE VISIT Since this is our most in-depth tour and we have more time to spend exploring, we always try to choose the most beautiful locations and ice caves to take our clients to. Keep in mind that from season to season, even within the season, the ice caves change, old ones disappear, and new ones form. The ice caves we visit therefore change, but we always take our clients to the best ice caves of the season.

Discover the Crown Jewel of Iceland: Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon Embark on an unforgettable journey to Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon, where stunning icebergs, majestic glaciers, towering mountains, the vast ocean, and a black sand beach await you. This tour is perfect for those looking to maximize their time exploring this breathtaking destination, with additional stops to admire the beauty of South Iceland—all in the comfort of a small group. Tour Highlights: Picturesque South Coast: Begin your adventure with a pick-up from Reykjavik, then travel down the scenic South Coast, passing lush meadows, rugged coastlines, and traditional farmsteads. Víkurkirkja and Reynisdrangar Seastacks: Our first stop is Víkurkirkja, a charming church on a hill with fantastic views of the ocean and the legendary Reynisdrangar Seastacks, said to be trolls turned to stone. Fjadrargljufur Canyon (Summer Season): As we continue south, witness the transformation from rich farmlands and dramatic mountains to dark outwash plains, black deserts, and staggering natural elevations. If conditions allow, visit the picturesque Fjadrargljufur canyon, made famous by Justin Bieber. Foss á Síðu: Marvel at this beautiful waterfall, where the wind can lift the water, creating an amazing uphill flow. Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon: The highlight of the day, immerse yourself in the ethereal ambiance of glittering icebergs, panoramic views, and lively wildlife, including curious seals and Arctic Skuas. Admire the icebergs from the shore or take an amphibian boat ride for a closer look (additional cost applies). Diamond Beach: Explore the remaining icebergs before they drift out to the ocean, landing on the renowned ‘Diamond’ or ‘Crystal’ beach. Hof Turf Church: On our return journey, stop at an old turf church at Hof, reminiscent of hobbit holes—discover the story behind it on the tour. Refreshments in Vík í Mýrdal (not included in the price): Stop for a meal in Iceland’s southernmost village, where you can enjoy delicious lamb soup or the famous black dough pizza. Seljalandsfoss Waterfall: Visit the 60-meter high Seljalandsfoss waterfall, a staple stop for sightseeing trips down the coast. Walk behind the waterfall if you dare! *Northern Lights (Winter Season): Between September 1st and April 1st, we’ll also be on the lookout for the Northern Lights on our way back. If the sky is clear and the aurora activity is strong, you’ll cap off your trip with one of nature’s most magnificent spectacles.

Embark on an unforgettable shore excursion journey to Borgarfjörður Eystri, a hidden gem in East Iceland where dramatic fjords, rich culture, and extraordinary wildlife meld in a magical fashion. This guided tour promises breathtaking landscapes, intimate puffin encounters, and a snapshot of Iceland’s enchanting folklore. We pick you up directly from your cruise ship im Seyðisfjörður. We follow the scenic route to Borgarfjörður Eystri, home to one of Iceland’s most dense puffin-watching sites. At Hafnarhólmi, a rocky islet teeming with thousands of nesting puffins each summer, birdwatchers and photographers can enjoy unparalleled views of these charming seabirds up close. Wander through the picturesque village, where colorful houses contrast beautifully with the surrounding raw Icelandic nature. Explore the historic Lindarbakki Turf House, a rare remnant of traditional Icelandic architecture, and visit Álfaborg, the legendary "Elf Rock," said to be the home to Iceland’s elf queen. This mystical site offers not only folklore but also breathtaking panoramic views. On your return journey, stop at the majestic Gufufoss Waterfall, where the soothing sounds of cascading water provide a peaceful conclusion to an extraordinary Icelandic adventure.

Discover the natural beauty of Iceland on a thrilling hike that takes you through crevices and icefalls of the Falljökull glaciers located inside the Vatnajökull National Park. Meet your guides, hop on the 4X4 ride that takes you to the edge of the glacier, saving us 20 minutes of walking from the main glacier parking lot and start your journey through picturesque landscapes and up to the base of Falljökull, one of the outlet glaciers of the vast Vatnajökull ice cap.  Get a unique perspective of the glacier as you drive into the glacier valley. Once inside, you will learn how to use crampons and have a short safety briefing before embarking up onto the ice. Spend the next 3 hours hiking through the stunning icefall, which Falljökull is famous for. Look closely and be amazed by the fascinating features of the ice. Learn about the geology, geography, and history of the local area as you are led to the highest point to marvel at the unforgettable views of the glacier valley. This tour is perfect for those who have been on a glacier before or those who enjoy long hikes, but novices looking for a bit of adventure are also welcomed on the tour.

Day 1: Golden Circle and South Coast The adventure begins with a pickup in Reykjavik then visit the popular Golden Circle attractions of Thingvellir, Geysir, and Gullfoss. Then make your way to the impressive South Coast where you will be greeted by the magnificent waterfalls of Seljalandsfoss and Skógafoss. Explore Reynisfjara black sand beach with the glorious Reynisdrangar peaks and visit the basalt column cave before reaching your accommodation for the night. Day 2: Vik, Skaftafell, and Jokulsarlon Glacier Lagoon After breakfast at your hotel, journey further south towards the charming village of Vik. Make a stop at the unique and photogenic black sand beach of Reynisfjara. After visiting Vik, make your way to the famous Jokulsarlon Glacier Lagoon with its floating icebergs. The nearby Diamond beach is also on today's agenda. See icebergs that have washed ashore glistening like diamonds on the black sand beach, leaving you feeling like you just stepped into a movie scene. Your accommodation for the night will be in the South East area. Day 3: East Fjords Today is all about exploring the East Fjords of Iceland. We'll be stopping at Djupivogur fishing village. Afterwards we'll be spending the day in an authentic live history in the Wilderness Center that offers various activities, such as hiking, biking, horse riding as well as provides accommodation, restaurant and spa services. We'll be finishing the day soaking in a hot spring spa in the authentic bathhouse made from stones. Day 4: Studlagil Canyon, Myvatn, and Akureyri Drive through the wilderness of Modrudalur to make your way to the capital of the North, Akureyri. Today's highlights include a visit to Lake Myvatn, where you can enjoy a relaxing bath in the hot spring pools of Myvatn Nature Baths. Finally, see the dreamy Godafoss waterfall. Your accommodation for the night will be at a country hotel near Akureyri.  Day 5: Whale Watching, Siglufjordur, and Trollaskagi The day starts for a whale-watching adventure. After your adventure at sea, we drive through the fishing village of Siglufjordur, which is a charming village rich in history, and the Trollaskagi peninsula, with some of the best ocean scenery you will see. Make your way to your accommodation for the night in the Northwest area.   Day 6: Visit the West Iceland region The day begins with a short hike up to Grábrók, a volcano crater. Stop at Deildartunguhver hot spring, the legendary waterfall, Barnafoss, (the Children´s Waterfall), and the Hraunfossar cascade. You'll also visit Reykholt, home to Snorri Sturluson, the Icelandic historian, lawyer, politician, poet, and the author of some Icelandic Sagas. On the way back to Reykjavik you'll drive around the scenic fjord, Hvalfjörður (Whale Fjord).