Personalized trips to Iceland
for independent travelers

How it works
Chat with specialist icon Step 1
Tell us what kind of trip you want
Complete our quick travel quiz
Chat icons Step 2
Chat with a local travel specialist
Work out the details together
Credit card icon Step 3
Securely book your trip
100% satisfaction guaranteed

Travelers love kimkim

- ., traveled to in

Introducing Iceland

When is the best time to visit?
Choosing the right time to visit Iceland depends on what you would like to see and do. To see the Northern Lights, visit in winter—and thus brave ultra-short days and brisk weather. If your goal is to hike, road trip, and otherwise explore outdoors, the best times are late spring and early fall. Summer months bring great weather and long days, but also attract big tourist crowds. Learn more

Where should I go in Iceland?
Iceland has much more to offer than the popular (and crowded) Golden Circle and South Coast areas. We highly recommend exploring Iceland’s remote regions such as Snaefellsnes Peninsula, the Westfjords, Lake Myvatn, and the East Fjords. See our recommended tours & itineraries to get ideas on how to plan your trip to Iceland. Learn more

How many days do I need?
You can have an epic Iceland experience when you spend at least 5 days. Shorter trips are possible but won’t give you enough time to explore beyond the Reykjavik area and the western section of the South Coast. With 8 days or more, you can complete the famous Ring Road and see sights that most tourists miss, like Godafoss Waterfall, the unique volcanic hotspots surrounding Lake Myvatn, and the Westfjords. Learn more

Getting around in Iceland
Most travelers drive themselves in Iceland during the summer season (Mid-April to November), and some opt for small group or guided tours during the winter season when weather, wind, and limited daylight can make driving more difficult. The Ring Road is Iceland's iconic multi-day road trip (typically 7-10 days), with many opportunities to extend further to more remote areas such as the highlands, the Westfjords, and northern coast. Learn more

Looking for inspiration? See our top Iceland itineraries

Explore trips by duration: 5 days · 6 days · 7 days · 8 days · 9 days · 10 days · 11 days · 12 days · 13 days · 14 days · 15 days · 16 days

Iceland Tours & Itineraries

Get inspired by trips other travelers have loved
Entering Goðaland (the "Land of Gods") during the descent to Thórsmörk
Map of Fimmvörðuháls Hike - The Ultimate Guide to one of Iceland's Best Day Hikes
Fimmvörðuháls Hike - The Ultimate Guide to one of Iceland's Best Day Hikes

If you’re looking for a great one-day hike that combines the best of Iceland into a single trek, this is it. The Fimmvörðuháls trail takes you through some of the most dramatic scenery Iceland has to offer, from a series of canyon waterfalls to a volcanic moonscape. Keep in mind, this day-hike is as long as it is rewarding.

Explore Iceland on a road trip of a lifetime
Map of Ring Road Self-Drive Itinerary: Highlights of Iceland & the Remote Westfjords - 14 Days
Ring Road Self-Drive Itinerary: Highlights of Iceland & the Remote Westfjords - 14 Days

With two weeks in Iceland, you can complete the entire Ring Road and add incredible detours. This grand tour will take you to all the best places giving you plenty of time to hike, explore, and soak it all in. This 14-day itinerary covers all the major regions except the highlands, which you can see with a couple more days or by spending less time in some of the areas below.

Walk behind Seljalandsfoss on the South Coast
Map of 3 Days in Iceland: Blue Lagoon, South Coast & Reykjavík - 3 Days
3 Days in Iceland: Blue Lagoon, South Coast & Reykjavík - 3 Days

If you're short on time or looking for an extended layover on your way from Europe to North America or vice versa, your options in Iceland are limited to those closer to Reykjavík. Here is a three-day itinerary that will still let you experience some of the spectacular beauty of Iceland.

Godafoss waterfall in northern Iceland
Map of Iceland Relaxed Ring Road Adventure - 10 Days
Iceland Relaxed Ring Road Adventure - 10 Days

10 days on the road in Iceland is enough time to discover its highlights and off-the-beaten-path wonders. Loop around the famous Route 1 (Ring Road) on a relaxed self-drive adventure, stopping at big cities, active volcanoes, cascading waterfalls, dried lava fields, black beaches, quaint fishing towns, massive glaciers, and the star landmarks along the famed Golden Circle. It's guaranteed to be a gorgeous ride.

Make the Most of Your Time in Iceland

Have a fixed number of days? Maximize the things to see and do during your visit
Reykjavík, Iceland
How Many Days to Spend in Iceland

You can have an epic Iceland experience when you spend five days or more in Iceland. Shorter trips are possible but won't give you enough time to explore beyond the Reykjavík...

Iceland Travel Essentials

All you need to know to get started planning the perfect trip
Iceland is worth a visit at any time of year; the moodier the weather, the better the pictures like the mammatus clouds that hang over the famous Reynisdrangar rocks
Best Time of Year to Visit Iceland

While the best time to visit Iceland depends on your priorities—whether chasing the northern lights, hiking dramatic landscapes, or avoiding peak-season crowds—aim for late...

Gullfoss Falls - Iceland's second largest waterfall
5 Best Things to Do in Iceland

Dubbed the Land of Ice and Fire, Iceland is a delight for all of your senses, from the deep chill of the air to the smoky smell of the volcanoes to the sights and sounds of the...

Skogafoss waterfall, Iceland
How kimkim Trips Works in Iceland

Travelers love Iceland for its wild landscapes, Reykjavík's cultural charms, and the seasonal magic of the northern lights. Work with a kimkim travel specialist to experience it...

Iceland Travel Advice

Read our detailed insights to make sure you have the best trip
A view over Glymur Falls
Guide to Hiking Glymur Falls

The trail to the majestic Glymur Waterfall offers all kinds of challenges - but the stunning views from the top are well worth the adventure. Get to the trailhead prepared for...

How to Tour the Golden Circle Like a Local
How to Tour the Golden Circle Like a Local

It's no secret that Iceland is drawing more and more visitors every year. If you're joining the ranks, skip the crowds at the most popular Golden Circle attractions and visit...

Iceland Destination Guides

Detailed travel guides for the main regions of the country

Iceland Travel Interviews

Get inspired by reading about experiences by travelers like you

Iceland Hotel Advice

Unique places to stay, curated by kimkim specialists
Photo courtesy of Hótel Húsafell
kimkim gem
Reykholt
Hótel Húsafell
4.9
(15)
· Luxury
Hótel Húsafell draws travelers seeking a luxurious, nature-inspired stay among the remote landscapes of West Iceland. Located just two hours north of Reykjavík, the contemporary, eco-conscious property is powered by geothermal energy, with interiors that showcase local materials like timber and...
Photo courtesy of Hótel Búðir
kimkim gem
Arnarstapi
Hótel Búðir
4.8
(30)
· Upscale
Hótel Búðir sits on the edge of a lava field in a remote pocket of the Snæfellsnes peninsula. Travelers stay in a quiet, windswept landscape two hours from Reykjavík, with the Atlantic Ocean on one side, the Snæfellsjökull glacier in view, and only a 19th-century church as a neighbor, while the...
Photo courtesy of Hotel Rangá
Selfoss
Hotel Rangá
4.9
(16)
· Luxury
Rustic, lodge-style luxury is the theme at Hotel Rangá, which offers a peaceful setting and sweeping countryside views from its perch on a bend of the Rangá River. Just minutes south of Hella, it's an ideal base for exploring the Golden Circle and the South Coast, while the on-site observatory...

Best Experiences in Iceland

Unique things to do, curated by kimkim specialists
Grindavík
The Blue Lagoon
4.7
(92)
3 hours
·
Self guided
Imagine relaxing in a blend of seawater and geothermally heated water, rich in silica, minerals, and algae, all while surrounded by a lunar lava landscape. This experience is one of Iceland's most famous and a huge tourist draw. But although it attracts the masses, as soak in the Blue Lagoon is...
Reykjavík
Silfra Snorkeling Adventure
4.8
(46)
2.5 hours
·
Small group
Snorkel the world's clearest water and float between the North American and Eurasian tectonic plates on this day trip from Reykjavík to Þingvellir National Park. Led by experienced PADI divemasters, you'll swim the cold Silfra fissure's breathtakingly clear waters—with visibility up to 394 feet,...
Reykjavík
Sky Lagoon Experience - Saman
4.9
(17)
2 hours
·
Self guided
Located just 15 minutes south of Reykjavík city center, Sky Lagoon offers a luxurious take on the traditional Icelandic bathing culture. Your entry includes access to the signature Skjól seven-step ritual, which starts in the oceanfront infinity pool fed by soothing geothermal waters. Follow with...

Our Latest Iceland Content

You'll stay warm with these tips, like this woman striking a yoga pose on top of the crashed plane at Sólheimasandur beach
How to Dress for Winter Activities in Iceland

Winter in Iceland is cold and dark (with only 4-7 hours of daylight), but beautiful—think snow-dusted lava fields, frozen waterfalls, and the glow of the northern lights above you. But to enjoy it all, you'll need to dress smartly. The key is layering: warm, weatherproof gear that keeps you dry, cozy, and ready for whatever fun outdoor activity you have planned. From glacier hikes to snowmobiling, here's how to stay comfortable while embracing chilly adventures in Iceland.

Pack right and you can hike around the hills and valleys of Landmannalaugar with comfortable ease
Ultimate Iceland Packing List

Iceland's weather is famously unpredictable, often bringing sun, rain, and wind within the same hour, which makes smart packing essential. With the right layers and a few key items, you'll be ready to explore the island's wild beauty in comfort.

Experience stylish luxury hotels on your two-week tour of Iceland (photo courtesy of The Retreat at Blue Lagoon Iceland)
Map of 2 Weeks in Iceland - 3 Luxury Itinerary Ideas
2 Weeks in Iceland - 3 Luxury Itinerary Ideas

With two weeks to spend on a luxurious trip in Iceland, you can choose between a fast-paced excursion that hits all the highlights or a more relaxed journey exploring remote gems. Opt for a complete circular route to travel in style by yacht and Super Jeep, taking in the breathtaking landscapes in ultimate comfort. Alternatively, you could focus on South Iceland, packing your days with thrilling activities. Or, venture into the Eastfjords, where you'll explore secluded villages and unwind in luxurious cabins.

Iceland Travel Maps

Get the lay of land, and understand distances between the places you want to visit
Map Where To Go in Iceland: the Best Sights and Activities Region by Region
Where To Go in Iceland: the Best Sights and Activities Region by Region
View article
Map Explore Iceland in 5 days - Seven Optimized Itineraries to help you make the most of your Short Trip to Iceland
Explore Iceland in 5 days - Seven Optimized Itineraries to help you make the most of your Short Trip to Iceland
View article
Map 7 Days in Iceland - 4 Unique Road Trip Itineraries
7 Days in Iceland - 4 Unique Road Trip Itineraries
View article

Meet our Local Travel Specialists

Experienced travel agents with a passion for Iceland
Travel specialist Guðmundur Óli Pálmason
active 4 hours ago

Guðmundur Óli Pálmason

Born in Reykjavík, Iceland, and from a young age I was already travelling all over Iceland with my parents. After a short stint as a driver guide on modified SUVs in 2004, I came back to it full...

read more...
Travel specialist Preeti Bhide
active 11 hours ago

Preeti Bhide

Travel is an experience that enriches our lives and is essential for all of us to grow as individuals. Personally, I love my holidays to be slower paced with time to stop and smell the flowers;...

read more...
Travel specialist Emanuela Grieco
active 1 day ago

Emanuela Grieco

I am an Italian Travel Designer mostly based in Iceland. Traveling has been my passion since I was young, being always fascinated by other cultures and people. In 2005, after living and...

read more...
Travel specialist Noga Heyman
active 2 days ago

Noga Heyman

Whether you're seeking adventure in rugged landscapes, immersing yourself in local traditions, or simply enjoying the serene beauty, I'm here to design an itinerary that perfectly matches your...

read more...

Related Destinations

Travelers who visit Iceland also visit these destinations

Trip Reviews for Iceland

The latest reviews by travelers who booked their trip on kimkim

Gummi did an outstanding job for us.
Iceland | Sep 21 - Sep 28, 2026

C
cathy d.
Newark, NJ | Reviewed on Oct 04, 2026
Gummi did an outstanding job for us. All hotels and excursions were booked and confirmed by Gummi and were without issues when we arrived at each venue. I would use his services again. Read more

Gummi did an outstanding job for us. All hotels and excursions were booked and confirmed by Gummi and were without issues when we arrived at each venue.

I would use his services again.

Hotel Review
Hótel Búðir
Búðir

Amazing views and comfortable rooms!

Location
The views were terrific.
Activity Reviews
Faxaflói Bay Whale Watching Excursion
Faxaflói Bay Whale Watching Excursion
Reykjavík

A terrific trip to see whales, which we had never done before. Take your dramamine before you board, although they have it onboard if you need it.

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Glacier Ice Cave Experience
Glacier Ice Cave Experience
Iceland

This was an interesting experience but should have been marketed as a "walk on a glacier" rather than as an "ice cave". The cave was very shallow (maybe 20 feet). The hike in crampons up the side of the glacier was ok although the weather was uncooperative.

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Víðgelmir Lava Cave Experience
Víðgelmir Lava Cave Experience
Iceland

An interesting cave and the guide was personable and informative.

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Local specialist: Guðmundur Óli Pálmason

The whole trip was phenomenal. Alicia helped ...
Iceland | Sep 12 - Sep 20, 2026

martin
martin j.
San Jose, CA | Reviewed on Oct 03, 2026
The whole trip was phenomenal. Alicia helped create an amazing trip! Iceland was beautiful and Alicia created an itinerary that let us see all the locations we asked for in addition to others we didn't know to ask to see. It was tailored to our interest and we had a fantastic time Read more

The whole trip was phenomenal. Alicia helped create an amazing trip! Iceland was beautiful and Alicia created an itinerary that let us see all the locations we asked for in addition to others we didn't know to ask to see. It was tailored to our interest and we had a fantastic time

Hotel Reviews
Hotel Reykjavík Saga
Reykjavík

Great location, walking distance to everything (no need to drive anywhere) and start was awesome.

Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Hótel Klaustur
Kirkjubæjarklaustur
Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Miðhraun - Lava Resort
Stykkishólmur

Family friendly, fantastic rooms, great restaurant and a hot spring that is a must when there.

Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Green Geysir Cottage
Bláskógabyggð

The hotel was fantastic, clean comfortable and very homie. Only thing I would say is if there's a way to turn off the lights from the walk away and the porch at night to see the northern lights.

Authenticity & Character
Location
It's away from city lights which is a huge plus for the northern lights
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Activity Reviews
Black Beach Buggy Tour
Iceland

We had a great time doing this. Our tour guide took too is to a third location that we feel was the best stop.

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Hvammsvik Hot Springs
Iceland

Great way to start your trip.

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Reykjavik Food Walk
Iceland

Our food tour is a must if you are visiting. Not only did we try a bit of every restaurant (oh and come hungry because you do eat a lot) our tour guide Katrín Elíasdóttir was extraordinary. We were on a good and history tour with her and I would recommend her to anyone.

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
We walked around
Local specialist: Alicia Jean-Talon

Amazing Journey In Iceland!
Iceland | Sep 23 - Oct 1, 2026

Robyn
Robyn P.
Saint Louis, MO, USA | Reviewed on Oct 03, 2026
We just completed 9 days in Iceland and had an amazing adventure! Being in Iceland for the first time, our experience with Kimkim and our local travel consultant Gudmundur Oli (Gummi) was exceptional! We liked that Gummi was a native Icelander and could provide excellent, first-hand knowledge of the best places to see and experience. From the initial trip planning and throughout our time in Iceland, Gummi was always available to answer any questions and provide guidance. The Kimkim App... Read more

We just completed 9 days in Iceland and had an amazing adventure! Being in Iceland for the first time, our experience with Kimkim and our local travel consultant Gudmundur Oli (Gummi) was exceptional! We liked that Gummi was a native Icelander and could provide excellent, first-hand knowledge of the best places to see and experience. From the initial trip planning and throughout our time in Iceland, Gummi was always available to answer any questions and provide guidance. The Kimkim App and WhatsApp tools were very useful for communications. We accessed the Kimkim App on our phones that had our daily itinerary and all relevant information, maps, reservations, etc. easily accessible. We had a very action-packed itinerary that covered primarily the West and South Highland areas. The specific areas that we really enjoyed included the geothermal lagoon experiences (Laugaras Lagoon was our favorite), old town Reykjavik (great restaurants like the FishMrkt and Fjallkonan), the Golden Circle (including the Geothermal Bakery Experience and Geysir Geothermal area), stunning waterfalls (so many, but our favorite was the striking blue waters of Bruarfoss), hike through the lava formations to Sigoludgljufur Waterfalls, the town of Vik (Vík i Myrdal Church hilltop views and Sudur-Vik Restaurant), Diamond Beach and Jokulsarlon Glacier Lagoon, and the Icelandic Food Walk in Reykjavik (our guide Minty was exceptional!). And, we saw the Norther Lights! Incredibly beautiful country, highly recommend!

Hotel Reviews
Alda Hotel Reykjavík
Reykjavík

Great location, friendly/helpful front desk staff. Nice breakfast and Starbucks adjacent to lobby. Clean and functional room.

Authenticity & Character
Functional hotel.
Location
Great location near many shops and restaurants.
Staff
Front desk staff was very helpful and accommodating.
Cleanliness & Comfort
Functional, and clean rooms. Inside rooms without an outside window access can be a bit stuffy with limited air circulation.
Hótel Lækur
Hella

Nice cottages in the countryside, clean and functional. Good views of sheep grazing in the fields, horses in the distance and creek nearby.

Authenticity & Character
Cute cottages in the countryside.
Location
Location was accessible to the ring road.
Staff
Staff was friendly and helpful.
Cleanliness & Comfort
Clean, functional rooms with nice living space in the cottages.
Fosshotel Núpar
Kálfafell

Good location along the southern ring road. Ample parking and good breakfast. Very plain, functional room.

Authenticity & Character
Very plain hotel with limited character.
Location
Good location along the southern ring road.
Staff
Team was friendly and helpful.
Cleanliness & Comfort
Clean and functional room.
Arnarstapi Hotel
Snæfellsbær

Great place to see the Northern Lights, and they have a camera on the tv system that you can use to monitor status of the Northern Lights. Very plain and basic, but clean and functional rooms. Nice views from our room of the Arnarstapi coastline. Breakfast was not included and hotel restaurant was expensive. Very limited other options nearby. Good location and lots to see along the coast within walking distance.

Authenticity & Character
TV had a channel with northern lights camera but it did not work well (poor connection).
Location
Walking distance to the ocean coast, arches and a monument. Northern Lights can be viewed well here when visible.
Staff
Found a cork screw to open our bottle of wine.
Cleanliness & Comfort
Good, basic newer clean room - no frills.
Reykjavík Marina - Berjaya Iceland Hotels
Reykjavík

Good location, near the marina. Welcoming hotel with apartment type rooms and common gathering spaces. Good breakfast. Parking was limited to street parking adjacent to the hotel.

Authenticity & Character
Unique hotel/residence. Lots of cool gathering spaces.
Location
Close to the downtown area with many shops and restuarants.
Staff
The front desk staff were very helpful and were happy to answer any questions.
Cleanliness & Comfort
We liked the 'home like' feel to the apartment style rooms.
Hótel Grímsborgir by Keahotels
Ásborgir

Great location near the Golden Circle. Helpful staff. Good breakfast. Dinner was very good but quite expensive. The room was nice, clean and functional.

Authenticity & Character
The main building has a good vibe.
Location
Great location near the Golden Circle.
Staff
Front desk staff was friendly and helpful.
Cleanliness & Comfort
Clean, functional room.
Activity Reviews
Laugarás Lagoon - Lerki
Laugarás Lagoon - Lerki
Iceland

Really enjoyed this lagoon experience. Seemed more authentic and relaxing compared to other lagoons. Less crowded, friendly staff, very nice facility and views of the bridge/river/landscaping.

Quality of Experience
Very good!
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Very friendly staff.
Transport
Good location and experience after a long day!
Glacier Ice Cave Experience
Glacier Ice Cave Experience
Iceland

Very unique experience. Landscape was beautiful. Ice caves were limited and did not fully reflect marketing pictures (some blue ceilings). Super jeep vehicle was unreliable and not properly maintained. Parts of the path up to the ice cave access was slippery and steep.

Quality of Experience
Reliable vehicles and better time management by all guides to efficiently move groups into/out of caves. A lot of standing around waiting on others.
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Guide was resilient through vehicle difficulties. Thankful for the guide from Poland who was able to get our vehicle jump started!
Transport
The vehicle was not properly maintained. They gear shift/transmission did not work properly. Vehicle was in low gear the entire drive to the ice cave area. It did not restart after view point and needed a jump start by another guide's vehicle. The driver had to leave the vehicle running for over an hour while we went up and into the ice cave area.
Geothermal Bakery Experience
Geothermal Bakery Experience
Golden Circle

Really enjoyed this unique experience. Appreciated the history and using the local ground geothermal properties for cooking. Break was very good!

Quality of Experience
Unique process and quality of the bread/result was excellent.
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Our guide was very knowledgeable and engaging.
Transport
Easy walk to shoreline to see the process of geothermal baking.
Víðgelmir Lava Cave Experience
Víðgelmir Lava Cave Experience
Iceland

Very unique experience. Interesting opportunity to walk across a large lava flow field to the access point and to step down into the lava cave. The wooden walkways/steps made access easier. Interesting geology that was well explained by our guide. We did not see any stalactites or stalagmites as stated in the activity description.

Quality of Experience
Unique geology and history of formation.
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Guide was very knowledgeable.
Transport
Good wooden walkways, but in windy conditions to/from access point can be challenging.
Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon - Zodiac Adventure
Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon - Zodiac Adventure
Iceland

This experience was cancelled by the service provide due to poor weather conditions/wind.

Icelandic Food Walk
Icelandic Food Walk
Reykjavík

We really enjoyed this experience. Minty our local Icelandic guide was exceptional! The variety of restaurants, food, beverages and stories/history was great!

Quality of Experience
Great guide and specific, local food/beverage experiences.
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Minty was the best guide, very engaging and knowledgeable!
Transport
Walking throughout the city from place to place was comfortable, even in the rain.
Faxaflói Bay Whale Watching Excursion
Faxaflói Bay Whale Watching Excursion
Reykjavík

We cancelled this activity 24 hours in advance due to poor weather conditions and schedule conflict.

Local specialist: Guðmundur Óli Pálmason

Why travelers love kimkim

Custom trips for independent travelers who are too busy to plan
Customize your trip with the help of a local travel specialist

Kimkim has handpicked the world’s top local travel specialists so you will have peace of mind and an unforgettable trip that meets your exact requirements.

Authentic travel experiences

Kimkim’s local specialists ensure that you will have the best experience based on up-to-date local insights. On top of that, the vast majority of your money will go straight to support and grow local economies.

Secure & easy booking

Once you are happy with the trip, you can easily book via kimkim’s secure payment platform.

Local support during your trip

You can always reach your local specialist with a quick message or call in case you hit a snag during your trip, or simply want some great local recommendations.