This 7-day Iceland winter photography itinerary covers the country's most iconic natural wonders during peak northern lights season in early January 2026. The trip efficiently explores western and southern Iceland in a counter-clockwise loop from Reykjavik, visiting the Snæfellsnes Peninsula (called "Iceland in miniature"), the dramatic South Coast with black sand beaches, the famous Golden Circle route, and multiple waterfall locations including Seljalandsfoss, Skógafoss, and Gullfoss. You'll experience temperatures around 0-2°C during the day with over 20 hours of darkness ideal for aurora photography, though frequent snow is expected.
The itinerary balances guided group experiences with private tours, offering exceptional photography opportunities at locations like Kirkjufell mountain, Reynisfjara's basalt columns and Reynisdrangar sea stacks, and the Blue Lagoon's milky-blue geothermal waters. A highlight is the Aurora Igloo accommodation on Days 4-5, featuring heated glass dome rooms with unobstructed views for photographing the northern lights from bed. The trip also includes a scheduled northern lights chase, lava cave exploration at Vidgelmir (Iceland's largest), the Lava Show experience, and a 3-hour Reykjavik walking tour.
Cultural and geological stops include Þingvellir National Park (UNESCO World Heritage Site and site of the world's oldest parliament from 930 CE), Deildartunguhver hot spring (Europe's most powerful), Kerid Crater, and seal colonies at Ytri-Tunga Beach. The package includes private airport transfers and multi-city touring with an optional Katla Ice Cave excursion available for an additional 196 EUR per person. Most locations provide 2-3 hours for photography, giving adequate time for proper setup and composition work in challenging winter conditions.
What is included in the tour
- Daily breakfast, Except during the Aurora igloo stay
- Pvt airport transfer upon arrival and departure to kef airport
- Pvt Multi City 1 night/2 day chauffeur service for the South Coast . Included all costs related to the transport, chauffeur meals, and accommodation.
- SIC : Fully escorted 2 Day Guided tour of West Iceland – Small Group /SIC (Seat in a coach) : Max 19 Pax : Sprinter Vehicle.
- Pick up and drop off within Reykjavik.
- English-speaking Guide.
- Accommodation for 1 nights in a double/ twin room or single with private bathroom
- Daily Breakfast
- Necessary safety equipment for the Lava Cave excursion ( Hiking boots not included, Eur 21 per person is a supplement for the rental).
- Professional tour guide in English in a minibus.
- Pick up and drop off within Reykjavik.
- Entry to the Kerid Volcanic Crater.
- Free Wi-Fi on bus.
- IMP: As the luggage space is limited therefore each guest needs to carry 3 days essential clothing in small luggages.
What is NOT included in the tour
- Air Travel.
- Meals and Beverages unless those specified here.
- Activities unless specified here.
- Sightseeing/Local Transfers (unless specified).
- Porter Service.
- Personal Travel Insurance.
- Tips to Guide and Driver.
- Last minute surprises.
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Snæfellsnes Peninsula Full-Day Tour: Explore "Iceland in miniature" featuring the iconic Kirkjufell mountain with Kirkjufellsfoss waterfall, black pebble beaches, glacier-capped mountains, and seal colonies at Ytri-Tunga Beach
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Aurora Igloo Glass Dome Stay: Sleep in heated transparent igloos near Hella with unobstructed northern sky views, allowing you to photograph auroras from your bed without braving freezing temperatures
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Northern Lights Chase Experience: Scheduled group tour on Day 6 to maximize chances of witnessing and photographing the aurora borealis during peak January darkness with up to 20 hours of night
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South Coast Black Sand Beaches: Visit Reynisfjara with its dramatic hexagonal basalt columns, sea caves, and legendary Reynisdrangar sea stack formations said to be trolls turned to stone
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Behind-the-Waterfall Walk: Experience Seljalandsfoss from the unique pathway that takes you directly behind the cascading water, plus photograph Skógafoss where spray creates frequent rainbow displays
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Blue Lagoon Geothermal Spa: Two-hour wellness experience in Iceland's famous milky-blue mineral-rich waters surrounded by moss-covered lava fields, with photography opportunities from viewing decks
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Golden Circle Route: Complete tour of Iceland's most famous circuit including Þingvellir National Park (UNESCO World Heritage Site and birthplace of the world's oldest parliament), Geysir geothermal area, powerful Gullfoss waterfall, and Kerid volcanic crater
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Vidgelmir Lava Cave Exploration: Guided excursion inside Iceland's largest lava tube cave with geological formations, part of the Silver Circle tour including Glanni Waterfall and Deildartunguhver hot spring
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Reykjavik Cultural Immersion: Private 3-hour walking tour of the capital's landmarks plus the unique Lava Show experience demonstrating real flowing lava for understanding volcanic processes
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Optional Katla Ice Cave Adventure: Super jeep glacier excursion with professional guides and equipment to explore crystal ice formations inside the glacier (196 EUR supplement)
