driving tours of iceland

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Iceland Self Drive Tours & Road Trips

A self-drive tour throughout Iceland is the ultimate road trip. Travel off the beaten path, stop for photo breaks whenever you want and create a custom itinerary tailored to you. Whether you hire a car, a campervan or a motorcycle, these 28 tours are guaranteed to deliver a truly unique experience.

28 Self drive tours in Iceland with 34 reviews

• In-depth Cultural

10 day Self-drive tour | Fantastic Iceland

8 day Self-drive tour | Fantastic Iceland

• Northern Lights

7 Days Self-drive | Golden Circle, South Coast, Snæfellsnes and Reykjavik

We had a super nice week, which was well thought out and organized by Tourradar. We also want to explore the north of Iceland and then come back to Tourradar for sure.

8 Days Self-drive | Around Iceland Ring Road Tour

Our 8 Day Self Drive Ring Road Tour was a lot of fun. Iceland was beautiful. We very much enjoyed driving around the pristine country. The wild flowers, waterfalls, glaciers, and beaches were amazing. The itinerary was well laid out with lots to see and plenty of time to see it. The hotel accommodations and breakfasts were very nice. My only regret is that I should have booked a longer tour instead of the eight day one.

Iceland Expedition | Northern Lights | Group Tour | Self Drive Road Trip | Adventures Overland

It was an amazing journey. I can't put it in words about the experience. Iceland has all my heart. Must recommended trip especially the other participants were so friendly and cooperative. If you miss this ever, you're gonna miss some real fun pal!

• Christmas & New Year

7 day Self-drive tour | Winter Wonders and Delicious Detours

6 Days Self-drive | Reykjavik, Golden Circle and South Iceland Tour

Amazing trip. Very well organised by Marina travel. Excellent itinerary, with all the ‘usual spots’ like the golden circle, that everyone sees. But also some more ‘out of the way’ things that make this more special. A beautiful country and an brilliant way to see it all. I would really recommend this trip. ♥️

5 Days Self-Drive | Golden Circle, South Coast

My husband and I had a wonderful one-year anniversary on this trip! Everything went so smoothly and Marina Travel completely booked everything for us, from the hotel to the rental car! If you're looking for a stress-free trip with lots of gorgeous scenery and adventure - this is the trip for you!

12 Days Self-drive | Everything your must see in Iceland Ring Road Tour

Excellent itinerary, great hotels, easy to read maps with lots of good information. Iceland is unique and beautiful, full of contrasts, wildlife and natural beauty.

10 Days Self-drive | In-Depth Iceland Ring Road Tour

This was a great adventure. The trip is well organized and once we booked a tour the company was very responsive. There are so many places to see and explore each day, and it makes for long days with late arrivals at the hotels. All the hotels were very satisfactory. I had 2 concerns regarding the trip. 1) The beer spa. Our visit was scheduled for 2pm and there is no way that we could possibly been there by that time. It followed a long day of exploring the Snaefellsness Pennisula. It did not seem possible to cover that amount of area and still arrive back in time for the beer spa appointment. We had to skip this one. 2) Why was Hella selected as one of our hotel overnights? We had to cover so much ground and events in the first few days and then suddenly our daily driving time dropped significantly the last couple of days. What were we supposed to do near Hella?

9 Days Self-drive | Ring Road & Golden Circle Complete Iceland Tour

Everything was vert well organise. The hôtel, the car, the way we had to take

11 Days Self-drive | Ultimate Iceland Ring Road Tour

Great team, good handling, hotels standard, food in restaurant delicious, breakfast standard. Iceland has a fantastic nature. Felt well advised. Big downer: the prices for many things are absurd! Will carry the trip forever in the heart!

5 day Self-drive tour | Golden Circle Self-Drive

8 day Self-drive tour | Ring Road Highlights

Iceland Travel was a great company to work with on our trip. They booked some amazing little hotels and Bed and Breakfasts that I'm not sure we ever would have known about if we had tried booking the same trip on our own. Our agent also made some excellent recommendations on how to spend our time in Iceland. We enjoyed our trip so much and would book with Iceland Travel again in the future. It did take a little longer to get an initial response from the company, but they are a small agency. Once communication was established with them though, booking everything was incredibly easy and they were happy to make any customizations to our package that we needed or wanted for our trip

7 day Self-drive tour | Geysers, Glaciers and Waterfalls

We had a lovely time and every was perfectly organized.

Iceland Road Trip Reviews

We were so pleased with the itinerary for our 7 day self-drive tour. It allowed enough flexibility for us to detour at will and still visit key sites. The nightly accommodations were clean and comfortable (if you don't mind single beds) and breakfast was plentiful at each hotel (although the coffee should come with a warning - not so good at the hotels - except Fosshotel Baron in Reykjavik was pretty good by comparison). While weather interrupted one day's plan, our agent suggested alternatives and we were able to enjoy the day. It was an exceptional trip for a reasonable price. Of course, we have to go back because 7 days isn't enough to truly see Iceland. Will use TourRadar again!!!

The tour was a once in a lifetime experience. Iceland itself was amazingly epic. The convenience of having the accommodations, car rental, and daily itinerary provided was the biggest upside. Hotels were the downside, I’d say. As someone with some food allergies, breakfast left me with fruit as my sole option, and the beds were consistently uncomfortable. We ran into no issues with our bookings or anything. Smooth trip. Happy adventure.

Exceptional hospitality and arrangements. Luxury and adventure at best

Regions in Iceland

• South Iceland (11)
• Iceland South Coast (6)

Travel Styles

• Iceland Travel Guide | All You Need to Know
• Best 7 Day Iceland Itineraries 2024/2025 (with Reviews)
• Best 10 Day Iceland Itineraries 2024/2025 (with Reviews)
• What is the best time to visit Iceland in 2024/2025?
• Weather in Iceland in 2024/2025

The Best Self-Drive Tours in Iceland

Self-drive tours are one of the most exciting ways to explore Iceland. On a self-drive tour, you are the one driving to the locations, deciding where to stop and what activities you want to do. You are given the freedom to explore Iceland however you wish with the best Self-Drive tours in Iceland.

Many of these tours come with a personal travel agent who is available to help you plan out your trip and help with any questions while in Iceland . Self-Drive tours in Iceland typically start at various stations in Iceland’s capital city Reykjavík. The trips will last an average of seven days and range in price from $400 to $3000 depending on the length of stay, time of year, and how many activities you sign up for. You will want to know some of the dangers of a self-drive tour if you want to book one. 

The road conditions of Iceland can be dangerous and unpredictable, so you’ll need some confidence in driving on these kinds of roads. Also, the temperature and terrain can be chilly and intense, so you might want to pack warm clothes and appropriate outdoor shoes.

The best self-drive tours in Iceland are listed below.

1. One Week Summer Self-Drive Tour of the Ring Road of Iceland & Golden Circle (All Regions, May-August)

The One Week Summer Self-Drive Tour is an excellent self-driving tour where you have a route picked out by Icelandic tour experts. You are treated to an eight-day adventure the whole way across Iceland’s famous ring road. This tour is perfect for anyone who likes to discover the breadth of Iceland at their own pace, without having to be under the thumb of a tour guide the whole time.

The tour costs $1,012 per person and offers travelers many perks. Travelers get seven nights of accommodation that is customizable and will always include a complimentary breakfast. You can also customize the activities and plans you can participate in through the booking process. These activities can range from snorkeling to snowmobiling to horseback riding. The tour comes with a luxury rental vehicle for eight days, a GPS, and a personal travel agent that is always available to resolve any issues on the trip. You will also receive a personalized itinerary, including popular and secluded spots for travelers who want to be alone.

You will start once you touch down at Keflavík Airport, the largest airport in Iceland. From there, you will visit many popular tourist hotspots, beginning with the capital city of Reykjavík. During the summer, Reykjavík has almost 24 hours of daylight. This fact makes Reykjavík the Iceland city that never sleeps and gives visitors a robust cultural experience and nightlife adventures. There are many things to do in Reykjavík while you are there, including whale-watching, natural wonders, fishing, and horseback riding.

During the rest of the trip, you will explore dramatic volcanic landscapes, the blue lagoon , hot springs, glaciers, caves, and stunning waterfalls. You will also pass through quaint towns and have the opportunity to dive into their local cultural cuisine and history.

Travelers should bring their driver’s license, swimsuits, camera, warm clothes, and sturdy shoes. This tour is suitable for all ages, but special care should be considered for optional activities that exclude young children and anyone with mobility difficulties.

Everyone traveling through Iceland, even on the safest roads, should be aware of the dangers of intense weather conditions and the physical toll that hiking through the wilderness can take on you. Airport transfer is included to and from the airport. 

2. Five Day Self Drive Tour of Iceland with Reykjavík, the Blue Lagoon & Jokulsarlon Glacier Lagoon (West and South Regions, April-August)

The Five Day Self Drive Tour of Iceland takes travelers through Iceland’s capital Reykjavik . It will also take you through the Golden Circle area, which includes glaciers, beaches, and volcanic regions. You will explore the Jökulsárlón glacier lagoon, famous waterfalls, Reynisfjara black sand beach, and many other natural wonders. This tour gives you all the freedom and control of a self-drive tour with the comfort of a thoroughly planned itinerary with accessible travel locations.

This tour costs $457 per traveler, and the locations of this tour are easy to traverse for all ages. There is no minimum age required to participate in this tour. Although the duration is five days, the starting and ending times are flexible if you want to be more casual with your time.  You will be able to book travel days between April and August, and it is recommended to use a tour booking like this during the summer because accommodations tend to run out. The summer months of Iceland are the biggest for tourists, and many services become overwhelmed by the demand. You will be provided with a personal travel consultant as part of the tour, who will coordinate all your accommodations and deal with any issues during your trip.

This self-driving tour starts with your arrival at the Keflavik Airport. You will begin by driving to Reykjavik, passing many of the beautiful sights of the Reykjanes Peninsula on the way. During this part of the trip, there is an option to stop at a world-renowned spa in the Blue Lagoon. If you don’t have enough time to see the Blue Lagoon, don’t fret, your personal travel agent can arrange this stop to be added to another day of the trip. Reykjavik’s nightlife is lively thanks to the midnight summer sun, which is excellent at keeping the party going.

This trip makes time for some more stops: the golden circle trails, black sand beaches, white glaciers, and the icy wonderland of Jökulsárlón. These locations have options for boat rides, snowmobiles, and hiking tours if you want to get closer to these spectacular sights. On the last day, you will end up back where you started at Keflavík Airport with time to visit the spa if you skipped out early or relaxed before your flight back home. During your trip, you will have to observe local standards about social distancing and masking, and you may have to take a COVID test before you enter Iceland.

3. Iceland Ring Road Express Tour (All Regions, May-September)

The Iceland Ring Road Express Tour is a fantastic fast-tracked driving tour of the entire ring road in Iceland that includes many of the top sights. This trip has a longer driving distance than some other tours, allowing you to see as much as possible in your limited time. On this tour, you will have a total driving distance of 1486 km or 923 miles and depart from your accommodations daily.

The tour costs $1,088 and is open to travelers of all ages. Many of the main areas of this tour are easily accessible. Still, some optional extras in the tour package may be more difficult, particularly any intense nature hikes. The tour is available from May to September so that the Iceland summer sun will be fully visible. This will make driving easier because the 24-hour sun will guide you on the road.

This tour in Iceland includes a free transfer through a private vehicle to and from the airport, so you don’t need to worry about traveling to a location right off the plane. Local travel agency experts will handpick your hotels for you, ensure they meet your needs, and always have breakfast included. A personal travel agent will be assigned to you during your stay, providing 24/7 help, knowledge, and anything you need during the trip. You will also receive a personalized map, travel guide, and itinerary to make travel less stressful and rewarding. If anything comes up before your trip, you can confidently book because the tour offers cancellation insurance and provides affordable deposits as low as 10%, so that you aren’t losing out if something unexpected comes up.

The trip starts with a rental car from Enterprise or Hertz as you drive into Reykjavík in Iceland. Once there, you will spend the night in the central area of Reykjavik, where you have an optional itinerary that includes walking tours, helicopter sightseeing, puffin watching, whale watching, and many more. You can also take some time to explore Laugavegur’s main street and its coffee-centric culture.

Next, you will head to the Golden Circle. This is a series of attractions in southern Iceland that include a national park , hot springs, waterfalls, and old craters. After visiting the Golden Circle, you will take a big road trip to various glaciers, icebergs, and rock formations, where there is an optional boat ride in a maze of floating icebergs. After spending the night in the Höfn area, you will be able to visit the East Fjords and, finally, the capital of the north: Akureyri. After heading back to Reykjavik, you will be transferred back to the Keflavík Airport in time for your flight out of Iceland. Depending on your flight time, you may have more time to fit in any last-minute extra stops you desire.

During your ring road trip, you must respect any local guidelines about COVID masking and social distancing and be aware of the driving rules. If you are driving, be sure to bring your driver’s license so you can successfully observe Iceland’s traffic laws.

4. Seven Day Northern Lights Self Drive Tour of Iceland Tour (South Coast, September-April)

The Seven Day Northern Lights Tour Self-Drive Tour is a week-long winter tour of Iceland that gives you the best chance to see and experience the northern lights and other natural wonders of Iceland. 

The tour costs $420 per person and comes packed with features and extras. This trip has a flexible starting and ending time and is open to tourists of all ages. It is excellent for families but can also make a fabulous romantic trip for couples. Since there is no age requirement, traveling on this tour is easy for everyone. When you book this tour, you get access to a personal itinerary guide and a travel agent who guides you through the tour process to help you make a perfect travel plan. This fully-customizable plan allows you to guarantee availability on all the sights and tours for Iceland you have been itching to go on. Since this tour is during the winter, there will be less daylight and less time during the day for certain activities, so planning out your route is essential.

More features of this tour include six nights of stay at different accommodation levels and a seven-day vehicle rental. Also included with your vehicle is damage waiver insurance that will cover minor vehicle damage with higher levels of insurance available as options. When figuring out your itinerary with your travel agent, you will have many optional add-ons, including snorkeling, spa bathing, northern lights hunting hikes, whale watching, caving, and many more.

The tour will start at Keflavík International Airport and start you on a journey to Reykjavík and the Blue Lagoon. At the Blue Lagoon, you will see a moss-covered lava field that looks like no other place on earth; you also have the opportunity to visit the spa. You will explore the city’s museums, landmarks, and shops in Reykjavík. The remainder of the journey of the trip includes a few iconic stops, including:

• Snaefellsjökull National Park
• The Golden Circle

If you schedule your trip between October and March, you will have a unique opportunity to visit ice caves. Ice caves flood when the sun rises, so winter is the perfect opportunity to see a fantastic natural sight.

You will want to bring warm clothing, hiking boots, a swimsuit, and a driver’s license for your vehicle. The southern coast can get quite chilly during the winter, but it is all worth getting a glimpse of the northern lights. Unfortunately, you are not guaranteed to see the Northern Lights during your trip, but your itinerary should give you the best chance of seeing it by maximizing the places where it is most visible. Something else to consider is that winter driving conditions in Iceland can be difficult, so you should ensure that if you are driving, you practice driving in winter conditions. If you don’t feel confident or comfortable driving during limited daylight or winter weather, you may want to sign up for a group tour instead. Also, pack slip-resistant shoes if you explore glaciers or ice caves in Iceland because nature doesn’t always have the best surfaces to tread on.

5. South Iceland At Leisure Tour (South Iceland, April-September)

The South Iceland At Leisure Tour is a self-driving tour where you can see many popular or secluded sights in the southern part of Iceland. The tour takes place during the spring and summer seasons and features a low to moderate amount of driving, depending on how many optional activities you sign up for.

This tour costs $1088 per person for a seven-day and six-night planned adventure across southern Iceland. The package includes a free airport transfer to get to your reliable rental car and a 24/7 helpline from a local travel agent. You will also get assistance from a knowledgeable personal travel agent that will help you decide and select which activities you will be doing on your customized itinerary. Additionally, you’ll get six nights of accommodations at personally selected hotels that range in comfort level depending on your needs and budget.

This tour has no age restrictions and is excellent for a family tour with an experienced driver. You will depart daily for new destinations and only have to be on the road for a few hours. The tour begins after you get your private transfer from Keflavík Airport. A personal driver will be there to greet you and take you to your hotel in Reykjavík. You are given the day to explore the downtown streets, shops, and street cuisine before picking up your rental car and heading straight to the south of Iceland.

While in the south of Iceland, you will explore the south coast, majestic waterfalls, glaciers, hiking trails, ice-climbing, and many more beautiful sights. You can also stop by a spa in the Blue Lagoon before the trip is over for an ultimate relaxing experience. Part of the tour follows the popular Golden Circle route full of exciting things like geysers, old shops, craters, and a national park. The tour will also take you to Þingvellir National Park, which will give you an insight into the culture of Iceland and its history. Once you arrive back in Reykjavík on Day seven, a shuttle bus will take you from your hotel to the airport to catch a flight out of Iceland.

While daily breakfast is included in the tour package, you will have to pay for several things on your own. Any flight costs are not included in the travel package, and you will be responsible for lunch and dinner. Also, remember that the price of gasoline for your rental car is not included in the self-driving tour package or personal travel insurance you may want to purchase.

While in Iceland, you will have to observe any COVID-19 restrictions, which may include masks or social distancing. If you are worried about canceling or ending the trip early, this tour does offer optional cancellation insurance and only requires a 10% deposit during the booking process.

6. South & West Iceland Classic Tour (Western and Southern Regions, April-September)

The South & West Iceland Classic Tour is an eight-day tour of Iceland’s popular western and southern regions. In this tour, you will explore floating icebergs in the Glacier Lagoon, the Diamond Beach , and the small fishing villages of Snæfellsnes. As its name implies, this tour focuses on the classic sights people think of while in Iceland and the historical areas of classic Iceland.

The tour costs $1217 per person and is excellent for families. There is no limit to a traveler’s age, and many of the tour stops will be in cities or towns where getting around is easy. The tour is available from April-September and features a total driving distance of 1555 km or 966 miles. An essential feature of this tour is the addition of a 24/7 helpline and personal travel agent that will assist you with anything you need. They will work with you from the booking process all the way through your trip in Iceland to make your adventures planned out and accessible. If your trip occurs during the summer months in Iceland, it can be notoriously difficult to get accommodations and open spots on tours. Your agent will use their connections to ensure you can do everything you want to do without worrying about Iceland’s busy tourist season.

Your journey begins as soon as you arrive at the Keflavik International Airport. The tour will dispatch a driver to pick you up and check you in to your hotel. Once that is done, you will have the opportunity to explore the capital city of Reykjavík through a number of different optional activities. You can go helicopter sightseeing, take a midnight sun safari, ride an ATV on a bike tour, or go on a food walk tasting tour of Reykjavik’s street cuisine and fancy restaurants.

After your inaugural day in Reykjavík, you will travel to the Borgarfjörður area, where you will encounter hot springs, waterfalls, and the Háafell Goat Farm. You will also take a tour through Viking history in the Icelandic Settlement Center and spend the night here before traveling south. The rest of your trip will be filled with roaring waterfalls, black lava beaches, mountains, a glacier lagoon, and volcanic peninsulas. The tour will also allow you to experience old town history and natural geothermal features like hot springs and water massages. After that, you will end up back in Reykjavík for one more night before a shuttle will take you to the airport to catch your flight the next day.

This tour includes many extra add-ons that you can select before you touch down in Iceland. Many of these add-ons are inexpensive, ranging from a few dollars to a few hundred dollars. If you are adding a lot of extras to a single day, you will need to carefully plan with your personal travel agent so that you can fit everything in. This tour package is great because it has many flexible add-ons on most days, so you will never run out of things to do.

You will want to know that this self-driving tour package doesn’t cover all your expenses. The tour covers your accommodations’ nights, a rental car, WIFI, meetings with your travel consultant, and daily breakfast. However, the tour price does not cover additional meals, gas costs, travel insurance, and services you use while in Iceland. 

7. Epic 14-Day Self-Drive Tour (All Regions, May-October)

The Epic 14-Day Self-Drive Tour is an excellent way to see everything in Iceland while taking your time and picking out lesser-known locations visitors can’t usually see on shorter tours. This two-week tour takes you across Iceland’s ring road and off the beaten path to discover hiking adventures, cultural landmarks, and authentic Icelandic cuisine.

The tour costs $1,536 and lasts exactly 14 days and 13 nights. This tour is considered easy to travel on, so there are no age restrictions. You will find the tour highly customizable, so it can be as easy or challenging as you want it to be. These factors make the tour perfect for families who wish to spend a full two weeks seeing all the sights without stressing about time.

As a part of the tour, you get 13 nights of accommodation with breakfast included and a rental vehicle for 14 days. Since this tour uses the ferry to Baldur, you also get transfer access for your car across the ferry. Also included in the tour package is a GPS and a personal travel agency that you can access 24/7. You can meet with tour guide representatives in Iceland for any help you need. This personal travel agent will help you craft the perfect travel plan, which you will receive in the form of a spiral-bound book after you touch down in Iceland.

You will begin your journey after arriving at Keflavík airport. Next, you will pick up your car at the airport before driving downtown Reykjavík to your accommodations. After spending a day enjoying the sights, smells, and tastes of Reykjavik’s capital, you will take your first step onto the ring road and see the famous Gullfoss falls. For the next two days, you will explore southern Iceland’s Golden Circle, which includes glaciers, beaches, and more waterfalls. On day five, you will find yourself on the east coast exploring rural Iceland’s villages and culture. By day seven, you will find yourself at the Troll Peninsula, exploring the northernmost botanical gardens in the world. The rest of the trip will be spent exploring the many sights of the Westfjords before heading back to Reykjavik and boarding a plane out of Iceland to conclude your journey.

A more extended self-drive tour is recommended to travel Iceland at your own pace, especially during the summertime. You should be sure to bring your driver’s license and medical documents if you go snorkeling while in Iceland. Even though it is a self-driving tour, the amount of organization and planning your tour agent will help you with will make you feel like you are taking care of nothing. The pace of the trip is front-heavy, with lots of things to do, and the trip slows down to a relaxed pace in the latter half. Summer is a great time to visit Iceland for a self-driving tour because it is the time of the year when driving is the easiest.

8. Romance Around Iceland Tour (All Regions, May-September)

The Romance Around Iceland Tour is a self-driving tour that is great for couples. It is a tour full of gourmet dining opportunities, romantic landscapes, and activities for two. You will get to tour the natural beauty of Iceland, including glaciers, beaches, hot springs, ice lagoons, and even sites of volcanoes.

The tour costs $2,245 per person for ten days and nine nights of honeymoon or romantic self-driving summer adventures. The tour package includes a free private airport transfer to your rental vehicle on arrival. You also get a local travel expert assigned to you so they can help you plan the trip that you have been dreaming of. There are options for a customized itinerary that lets you see the Glacier Lagoon, The Golden Circle, the volcanic Lake Mývatn, and many more. The locations and scenery will sometimes require a proficient level of fitness to visit and hike, so this tour is not recommended for children or people with mobility issues.

When you arrive at Keflavik International Airport, you will meet your private driver, who will take you to Blue Lagoon’s geothermal spa, where you will spend 2-3 hours having a world-famous spa experience. Next, your driver will take you to where you can check in to your hotel and spend the remainder of the day exploring the city center. Reykjavik is a beautiful place to stroll around and enjoy the nightlife, especially during the summer when the sun ensures there are activities to do at all times of the night. There is also a spectacular old harbor neighborhood where you can go out onto the ocean for snorkeling or animal watching.

Day two has you visiting the Golden Circle route. Before retiring for the night, you will visit Þingvellir National Park and Gullfoss waterfall and explore more of southern Iceland the next day. The part of south Iceland on the itinerary is well done, with many unique options you can sign up for. Travelers can ride on ATVs on sandy beaches, walk on a glacier, or participate in a snowmobile tour of the glacier. Day four is devoted entirely to eastern Iceland and is the hottest part of the trip. The last three days of the trip are spent in northern Iceland visiting canyon baths and inner glaciers or going on a Viking sushi adventure. This tour makes the great decision to spend more time in the north of Iceland, as many other all-region tours make this the shortest part of the trip. Your last day will have you boarding a private airport transfer vehicle at your hotel in Reykjavík, where you will be dropped off in time for your outbound flight.

Something to consider about this tour package is that lunch, dinner, and drinks are not included, so you will need to leave additional space in your budget for food while in Iceland. You will also be responsible for travel insurance and the cost of refilling your rental car. This tour includes several nice perks, like covering all the entry fees to activities you sign up for. Since it is a romantic tour, you will get complimentary champagne and chocolate. All the accommodations you will be staying at are comfortable plus or superior in quality, so you will always be able to rest easy.

9. Into The Glacier Tour (South Iceland, October-April)

The Into The Glacier Tour is a self-driving tour positioned perfectly during Iceland’s winter season. Before diving into Iceland’s south coast, you will mainly explore the western Iceland area of Reykjavík. There you will see icy waterfalls, hot springs, and the prime attraction, the ice tunnel of Langjökull Glacier, which is only open during this part of the season.

The tour costs $1096 per person for six days and five nights of winter adventures. For this price, you will receive a complimentary airport transfer to your rental vehicle and many other perks. Just booking the tour will connect you with a personal travel agent available 24/7 through a helpline. This agent will also help you decide and plan your route and any extra stops you want to make. The total driving distance of the tour is 823 km or 511 miles. Travelers who took the tour noted that the driving time is relatively low, so you will spend most of the time doing what you want to do instead of driving to get there. This tour has no age restrictions and is excellent for families of any size.

This tour has many highlighted features, with some you can only experience in the winter. You will dive deep into a glacier tunnel only available at a specific time of year when the summer sun isn’t flooding the area. You will explore the iconic Golden Circle route and see attractions like geysers, hot springs, a thunderous waterfall, basalt sea columns, and black sand beaches. You will see evidence of a volcanic landscape everywhere you go.

On the first day of the trip, you will arrive at Keflavik airport and be transferred to your hotel in Reykjavík. In Reykjavík, you will get your first chance to hunt for the Northern Lights in the evening. The tour is set up so you have a reasonably good chance at experiencing the Northern Lights, but seeing them isn’t guaranteed. The city of Reykjavík is worth a trip of its own, with its unique culture, vibrant city center, and a plethora of bars, restaurants, and museums. On the second day, you will visit Langjökull for two to four hours and dive into the glacier. This glacier is the second-largest in Iceland and is breathtaking and awe-inspiring in its beauty. You will ride a modified truck to a man made tunnel filled with gorgeous blue ice crystals.

The remainder of the trip will be spent exploring the Golden Circle and the southern Icelandic coast. Since the journey doesn’t have much driving, you will be able to spend more time in these locations. Many optional activities are available, like snowmobile tours, ATV tours, and waterfall horseback riding.

There are a few considerations you would want to take into account for this tour. Since it is a winter tour, you will want to make sure you pack plenty of warm clothes and winter shoes that are appropriate for the weather. This tour covers your daily breakfast and five nights of accommodations. However, you will be on your own to cover your other meals, any drinks, and all driving-related fees.

10. Highlights Of Westfjords Tour (North and West Iceland, May-September)

The Highlights of Westfjords Tour is a 12 days and 11 nights extravaganza that focuses on the hidden gems of northern and western Iceland. You’ll be provided access to some of Iceland’s rarer and lesser-known attractions. This means that a knowledgeable person needs to arrange the tour. You will see sights like unspoiled natural scenery that few people see during a routine tour of Iceland’s greatest hits. This self-drive tour aims to expose you to northern and western Iceland’s culture, history, traditions, and most remote locations.

The tour costs $1,631 per person and includes 11 nights of accommodations. As part of the package, you also receive a complimentary breakfast every day. The tour is slow-paced, so you will have plenty of time to enjoy the sights without feeling the need to rush. You will be driving a rental vehicle for a total distance of 2149 kilometers or 1335 miles. Since the tour has some stops off the beaten path, this tour is recommended for adults only. Some of these spots can be challenging for kids to travel to and explore. This tour is available during the months of summer, so travel should be easier than during some of the other seasons in Iceland. 

The self-drive tour starts upon arrival at Keflavik airport, where you are met with a private shuttle driver who will take you to Iceland’s capital city of Reykjavík. After you settle into your hotel, you are free to explore the vibrant downtown areas where you can go to specialty shops, cozy cafes, and authentic Icelandic restaurants. On your second day in Iceland, you will go to Borgarfjörður, stopping to see twin waterfalls, a hot spring , and a goat farm. You have an option to soak in a geothermal bath, explore a lava tunnel, or peek inside a glacier. This part of western Iceland is known for its beautiful midnight sun displays.

Some of the highlights involve the places where many tours don’t go. You get to explore the city of Ísafjörður in Iceland which is famous for its out-of-the-way trails and harbor downtown. On this tour, many of these nature walks are great photo opportunities for nature lovers and exotic animal fans. Another highlight is when you take the Baldur ferry to Stykkishólmur. The ferry ride takes two hours and 45 minutes, and you can see many unique sights along the way. At the end of the tour you will see Dritvík Cove and Lóndrangar Cliffs before heading back to Reykjavík. From there, a private shuttle will take you back to the airport in time for you to catch your flight.

You will want to ensure you are prepared. Make sure you have packed suitable clothes for hiking and exploring nature. Also, the tour covers breakfast, but you are on your own for food and driving expenses. This tour requires you to pass a COVID test before landing in Iceland, so you must prepare for that rule ahead of time.

What to know for Best Self-Drive Tours in Iceland

There are a few important considerations when going on the best self-drive tours in Iceland. Some of these considerations are listed below:

Airport Transfer Arrival/Departure: You can be relieved to know that most self-drive tours will have transfer services to get you to and from the airport, so you don’t need to worry about getting to your flight on time.

Accommodation Cost: The cost for accommodations on a self-drive tour is built into the tour packages, so you don’t have to worry about finding accommodations and budgeting for them.

Personal Travel Agent: Most self-drive packages give you a personal travel agent who will make planning your trip easy. They will also be available to help you during your trip to Iceland.

Price Range: The price range for a self-drive tour in Iceland will range between $400-$3000 per person though some can cost more than that.

Price Factors: Some factors that will influence your price will be the month you book your trip, the duration of your journey, and the number of optional activities that you sign up for.

Popularity: Self-drive tours are popular. They offer a unique experience of privacy and are great for couples or families who want to visit some attractions on their own.

COVID-19 Precautions: Iceland no longer requires vaccinations to enter the country, and many social distancing standards and mask requirements are relaxed. However, many tour groups will require you to pass a COVID-19 test before entering Iceland, and some areas still require masks.

Which regions of Iceland are better for Self-Drive Tours?

Some regions are better for self-drive tours than other regions. These regions are listed below:

• Southcoast Region: The south coast of Iceland is better for self-driving tours because there are more attractions and more varieties of attractions. They are also in closer driving distance to each other than other regions.
• Southwest Region: This region has Reykjavik, the capital of Iceland, and the Blue Lagoon spa. This region offers the best mix of sweeping vistas and Icelandic culture.

What are the Most Famous Self-Drive Tours of Iceland?

If you are looking for the most famous self-drive tours for tour ideas, some are listed below:

• Summer Ring Road Self-Drive Tour : This tour is popular because it is one of the most flexible ring road tours that hit all the major sights for a memorable trip.
• Highlights Of Westfjords Tour : A tour that is famous for its great itinerary that gives visitors a look at some of the underappreciated tour sights.

What are the Best Self-Drive Tours for Families?

If you have a family, you will look for some of the best self-drive tours for families to accommodate your needs. Some of the best self-drive tours in Iceland for families include:

• 10-Day Self Drive Tour of the Complete Ring Road:  A comprehensive tour with no minimum age for any stops or optional add-ons. It is also highly flexible with time.
• 7-Day Northern Lights Self Drive Tour of Iceland: This tour is one of the best family winter tours because it maximizes your family’s chance to see the Northern Lights.
• Express 6 Day Summer Self Drive Tour: A tour like this is better for families because it quickly hits all the stops on the ring road that kids like and can do. It has several animal-watching tour options, making it an excellent tour for families.
• 4-Day Summer Self Drive Tour with Iceland’s Golden Circle: This tour has all the hallmarks of a good family tour. It is a shorter tour, so the kids don’t get bored, but it also has excellent terrain and cultural stops that make it fun for adults too.

What are the Best Self-Drive Tours for Couples?

Couples will have special needs that can only be fulfilled by self-drive tours in Iceland that are the best for them. Some of the best self-drive tours for couples include:

• Romance Around Iceland Tour: A tour that knows its audience because it provides complimentary champagne and chocolates to couples.
• Slow-Paced 10-Day Summer Self Drive Tour of the Snaefellsnes Peninsula: This tour is great for couples because it allows people to enjoy each other’s company as much as they enjoy the attractions.

What are the Most Mysterious Iceland Self-drive Tours?

If you are looking for something different, then the most mysterious Iceland self-drive tours are listed below.

• Highlights Of Westfjords Tour: This tour is highly recommended because it takes you to a place few visitors to Iceland know about, with many mysterious locations.
• 5-Day Northern Lights Winter Self Drive Tour: A tour like this satisfies your mysterious factor because it avoids major cities and light pollution, leaving only you and the mysterious Iceland wilderness.

What are the Most Dangerous Iceland Self-drive Tours?

Self-drive tours offer you a ton of freedom, but they can also be dangerous if you are not careful. You should be sure you book a tour with a personal travel agent to ensure that your self-drive tour has some security.

Weather conditions can change instantly. Sometimes, hiking through the Icelandic wilderness can be difficult and dangerous. If you have a lifeline in the form of a travel agent, you can call anytime. You can be sure that you can avoid dangerous situations and get advice on what to do when the weather turns harsh.

What are the Most Luxury Iceland Self-Drive Tours?

The most luxurious self-drive tour to Iceland is the Iceland Full Circle At Leisure tour. The tour can cost up to $6,257 per person and lasts 14 days and 13 nights. This tour is more expensive because it gives you the highest quality of accommodations, the most tourist attraction options, and a more extended trip.

What is the Price Range for Iceland Self-Drive Tours?

The price range for self-drive tours will vary based on the time of year you book, the number of days you will spend, and the options you choose for your accommodations and stops. The price range for self-drive tours is between $400 and $3000.

If you book a summer tour in Iceland, that will increase the price considerably. The most expensive month on average is July, but the least costly month will typically be February. This is because the demand is higher in the summer, and there is much more competition for accommodation and tour spots. 

What is the Cheapest Self-Drive Tour in Iceland?

The Seven Day Northern Lights Self Drive Tour of Iceland and the Five Day Self Drive Tour of Iceland are the cheapest self-drive tours. The reason they are cheaper is because of the tour duration and the time of year.

Winter tours in Iceland are often cheaper than other tours, and a few days means you will have fewer hotel nights to pay for.

What are the Rules for Iceland Self-Drive Tours?

There are two rules to remember when going on an Iceland self-drive tour. Some of these rules are listed below:

• Bring your driver’s license: You will need a driver’s license to be allowed to drive a rental car in Iceland. Your personal tour agent should let you know of all the things you need to do before arriving in Iceland.
• Be aware of road conditions: The roads in Iceland can be treacherous when the weather turns bad. You should be confident driving in adverse weather conditions and check the weather in Iceland ahead of time every morning to stay safe.

Is taking Photographs allowed for Self-Drive Tours?

Yes, taking photographs is encouraged at nearly every attraction during a self-drive tour in Iceland. The landscapes of Iceland are beautiful, and self-drive tours make a point to ensure you have plenty of time to stop and photograph your journey.

Do Tour Packages offer Photography for Self-Drive Tours?

Yes, many of the self-drive tour packages will offer photo opportunities on your tour. Sometimes they will offer optional activities that are great photo opportunities.

Are Iceland Self-Drive Tours safe from COVID-19?

Yes, many tours require their customers to pass COVID-19 tests before entering the country. Since self-drive tours don’t have tour guides, you won’t have to worry about anyone else’s COVID status while in Iceland.

Are Self-Drive Tours in Iceland alone allowed?

Yes, solo travel on self-drive tours is allowed and is a great way to save money on a tour package. Although, on many tours, you are never truly alone, thanks to a personal travel agent that is available with just a phone call.

Are you allowed to bring Food to the Iceland Self-Drive Tours?

Yes, you will often have to buy your own lunch and dinner on self-drive tours. Many tourist stops also don’t provide food, so they allow you to bring your food.

What are the Best Sessions for Iceland Self-Drive Tours by Month?

When booking a self-driving tour, you want to go during the best sessions for Iceland Self-Drive Tours by month. Some of the best sessions for Iceland self-drive tours are listed below:

• May-August: This is the so-called high traffic season of Icelandic tourism. It is one of the best sessions because the midnight sun is available, allowing you many more hours of daylight for activities.
• November-March: This is a good session for an Iceland visit because, during this time, you have the greatest chance of seeing the Northern Lights. Also, since it is no longer the busy season, the cost to travel around Iceland will be cheaper.

What is the Average Duration of Iceland Self-Drive Tours?

Self-driving tours usually last for an average of seven days, though some tours will be shorter and others longer. You will get the best prices for self-driving tours during the winter when the cost is only $57 per day for the tour package. You will also want to factor in the cost of food, gas, and optional stops as well.

Where do the Iceland Self-Drive Tours start?

Nearly all Iceland Self-drive tours will start in the city of Reykjavik. This is because you will need a rental car to begin your journey, many of which are in Iceland’s capital city. The city of Reykjavík is also the closest to the Keflavík airport, so it is a convenient starting point.

Are Iceland Self-Drive Tours cheaper than group tours?

Yes, Self-drive tours are often cheaper than group tours because you don’t have to pay for an on-site tour guide.

What to know about Self-Drive Tours in Iceland?

You will want to know a few things about self-drive tours in Iceland before you go. Some of these are listed below:

• Tour at your own pace: These tours allow you to explore Iceland at your own pace, it can be as fast and as slow as you want it to be, and you will feel less pressure to keep up with a tour group.
• Self-drive tours are easy: Self-drive tours are low difficulty and easy to do. These tours are great for couples and families as long as you follow proper safety precautions.

Are Self-Drive Tours Recommended for Tourists?

Yes, self-drive tours are recommended for tourists because they give you the freedom to experience Iceland the way you’d want to. They are great because they provide an itinerary to take the stress out of planning, but they also give you the freedom to stop wherever you want along the way.

What are the other Activities for Iceland Tours?

If you are looking for activities to do while on Iceland tours, some are listed below:

• Whale Watching: Self-driving makes getting to a suitable port easy, so you can get on a boat with the best chance of finding rare or unique whale species.
• Golden Circle: The Golden Circle is perhaps the most famous set of attractions, and with self-driving, you can experience it any way you want.
• Spas: If you pick a self-drive tour, you will give yourself extra time on your trip. This extra time means you have more time for a relaxing day at the spa.
• Hiking Trails: Having your own car lets you find more hiking trails if you are someone that likes going off the beaten path.
• Reykjavik Culture: Since you start in the bustling city of Reykjavík on a self-driving tour, you will get a greater chance to explore the local culture here.
• Snowmobile tour: A self-drive tour gives you more flexibility, so you may be able to do a snowmobile tour since you don’t have to worry about keeping up with a tour group.

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HIDDEN ICELAND

Come & Find the Best of Iceland

DELVE INTO OUR PREMIUM SELF DRIVE TOURS

Our premium self drive itineraries are designed for travelers who want help creating the perfect vacation and finding the best of iceland, coupled with the freedom of driving themselves. our premium self drive team will plan and book all parts of your vacation and support you along the way, so you can focus 100% on enjoying your trip, stress-free., please note: hidden iceland only provides self drive itineraries that run between the 15th of april and the 15th of october. if you are travelling outside of these dates, consider our small group tours or private packages . .

What makes our self drive itineraries premium?

Hidden iceland’s self drive itineraries are designed with quality and a high level of service in mind., 1 | personalised itineraries our trip planners will create a personalised itinerary, just for you nothing is ever ‘off the shelf’. everything that’s included has been handpicked and approved by hidden iceland. whether that’s your remote stay in a luxurious country hotel, your adventurous glacier hike or tranquil horse ride, or even just a great restaurant recommendation. we’ve meticulously trialed every aspect of your experience. we know you’ll love the finished version., 2 | step by step guide once you are happy with the outline, we’ll do the rest. we’ll book the vehicle, accommodation and all activities. then once the trip is paid for, you’ll receive an in-depth step-by-step guide, loaded with hints and tips, connected to google maps, to lead you around iceland (see sample images below). this can be downloaded on your phone, viewed online, or printed. it includes everything you could possibly need while in iceland., 3 | on the ground support when you’re in the country, we’re here to support you at every corner. iceland’s weather changes quickly and we’ll be on hand if something in your itinerary needs to change too. or if you just want to add something extra along the way. you can contact us between 8am and 7:30pm each day by phone or email, with emergency numbers provided outside of these hours., good luck have a great vacation we can’t wait to hear how it goes. check out our past customer reviews for what they have to say., example images from a sample itinerary.

What do you get as part of a premium self drive itinerary?

– all hotel bookings, – all activity bookings, – vehicle hire for the duration, – full itinerary planning by our expert trip planners, – locations, timings and advice for each location online or as a downloadable app, – vehicle emissions automatically offset as part of our environmental strategy, – meal suggestions and hints and tips to maximise your time on each day, – support from hidden iceland by call or email whilst in country, sample itineraries to get you started.

Frequently Asked Questions

How much does this premium service cost are there up front fees there are no up front fees to receive your itinerary outline. all of our ‘service fees’ are embedded in the overall price of the tour. a small margin is added to the confidential net rates that we get when booking each part of the trip e.g. hotels, vehicles and activities. this allows us to not have to charge any flat fees and keeps the overall price of the tour fair., when will i receive my final step by step itinerary to confirm the trip and for us to book and hold all the reservations, we accept a deposit (once you’re happy with your custom itinerary). we then receive the remaining balance 2 months before the trip runs. we will then do the finishing touches and provide you with your step-by-step guide no later than 2 weeks before departure., would it be cheaper booking everything myself every trip is bespoke planned to you. when we are planning an itinerary for you, we will do our best to work to your budget, high or low. we will mix and match hotels, activities and car types to fit your needs. this can end up making the trip cheaper than if you tried to plan each component of the trip yourself. however, we do know that with last minute deals or the odd online offer, it may well be cheaper doing it yourself. if you have a shoestring budget then our premium service might not be the right fit for you., can i get an itemised quote for everything that’s included we only provide quotes for full packages. your entire vacation, excluding international flights. the individual prices we receive from hotels, activities and car hire are confidential rates, with our service fee embedded. this can’t be broken down. however, we will provide you with upgrade options and prices of optional activities to allow you to further personalise your trip., will my itinerary include every great spot that iceland has to offer in that area in a word, no. we want to avoid the trap of becoming a guide book. our itineraries are designed to be achievable, fun and immersive, without exceeding our recommended driving times each day. just remember, you’re on vacation so we will include our favourite spots, activities and the odd optional stop off that we think you will like. if you follow the itinerary as described, you should never have to rush breakfast or miss dinner., do you offer budget itineraries such as camper van or camping trips sadly not. we only provide premium self drive itineraries where we only put you in hotels (comfort, quality or luxury) that we’ve personally approved. we only use activity operators that meet hidden iceland’s stringent safety and quality levels. we only use vehicle hire companies that provide a great service and have clean and well maintained cars. we don’t have enough visibility of quality levels at camp sites and budget operators to be able to confidently offer a great service every time., ready to make your dream trip come true, please try to give us as much information in your submission as you can. we respond to all tour requests within 7 days, but please reach out to us if your request is urgent, or you want to provide more info..

Self-Drive Tours

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Self Drive Tours in Iceland

7 Day Self-Drive Tour | South Coast, Snaefellsnes & The Golden Circle

7 day Self-drive Tour | South Coast, Snaefellsnes & The Golden Circle

See the best of iceland, from the geyser to the black sand beaches.

A 7-day journey unlike any other  begins with the dramatic landscapes of the  Snaefellsnes peninsula. The itinerary then guides you to the three landmarks of Iceland, Thingvellir National Park, the Geyser and Gullfoss Waterfall, famously known as the Golden Circle. Your South Coast exploration will include black sand beaches, hidden waterfalls and serene lava fields. Book this self-drive tour and you won’t need to worry about planning and you’ll have all the freedom you want. Plus, you’ll receive exclusive tips, top restaurants and much more in all these areas.

• Snaefellsnes Peninsula
• Reynisfjara Black Sand Beach
• Glacier hiking on Sólheimajökull glacier
• The Golden Circle
• Authentic villages (Vik, Hella, and more)
• 9+ breathtaking waterfalls (Gullfoss, Skogafoss, Barnafoss and many more)
• Eyjafjallajokull Volcano
• Jokulsarlon Glacier Lagoon
• Secret Lagoon & Blue Lagoon
• Accommodation for 6 nights with breakfast
• Rental car for 7 days (w. Collision Damage Waiver, Personal Accident Insurance & Theft Protection)
• Glacier hike on Sólheimajökull's Glacier
• Detailed itinerary & information package

What to bring

• Warm layers
• Waterproof clothing
• Hiking boots
• Drivers license

Tour Snapshot

• No Booking Fees
• Fast & Secure Payment
• Best Price Guarantee

Your Tour Package Includes:

√ A rental car

√ Accommodation

√ Detailed Itinerary

√ A glacier hike

Options:   A mini/economy (Toyota Aygo or similar) vehicle option is included in the tour by default. You can upgrade the vehicle to a Standard (Toyota Avensis or similar), Economy SUV (Dacia Duster or similar), or Full-Size SUV (Mitsubishi Pajero or similar) car model. All rental cars have automatic transmissions. The van option can come with a manual transmission in case an automatic is not available.

Pick-up:  Choose between pick-up locations at Keflavik International Airport (KEF) or  BSI Bus Terminal in downtown Reykjavik , at flexible times.

For the best experience, we recommend that you pick your car up early on the first day and return it in the afternoon or evening on your last day.

Dropoff:  By default, the dropoff location for your car will be Keflavik International Airport (KEF). You can change it and drop off the car at the  BSI Bus Terminal in Reykjavik  (details about this process will be included in your confirmation email).

Your Accommodation:

Comfort accommodation is included in this package. Great locations, complimentary breakfast, and all necessary amenities will be at hand.

When booking for 2 or 4 persons you get twin/double rooms. When booking for 3 or 5 persons you get a combination of double/twin rooms and a single room.

Your itinerary includes:

√ Detailed map of Iceland with all stops

√ Easy-to-follow daily travel plans

√ Mobile-friendly design

√ Descriptions & photos for all major stops

√ Approximate time you will need at each stop

√ Tips about the best nearby restaurants

√ Must-have Iceland travel apps

√ Exclusive locations not included in the tour description

√ The option to print and share with friends

Other information:

Your glacier hike  on  Sólheimajökull 's outlet glacier  is included in the specified price, but entry to the Blue Lagoon is not. You will need to book in advance at their  website .

To offer the best price possible, this self-drive package is fixed and cannot be changed or altered. The package has been optimized for the best experience.

Day 1 - The Snaefellsnes Peninsula

On your first day, you will pick up your car and make the scenic journey toward the Snaefellsnes Peninsula. Colorful houses of Reykjavik, gorgeous Icelandic countryside, a stop at the old Akranes lighthouse – you are off to a great start.

The towns of Husafell and Reykholt are up next. The former is known for ice caving adventures you can book on location and the latter is an intellectual center of Iceland with top notch geothermal baths. In between the towns, your itinerary will guide you to two waterfalls with milky waters and introduce you to some fascinating folklore tales surrounding them. Last up, the most powerful geothermal hot spring in Europe will crown your first day on the road.

Your accommodation for the evening will be in a hotel near Ytri Tunga, a famous seal colony, surrounded by the magical scenery of the Snaefellsnes Peninsula.

Day Highlights

• Old Akranes Lighthouse
• Hraunfossar & Barnafoss waterfalls
• Deildartunguhver

Accommodation

Hotel Borgarnes

Day 2 - the snaefellsnes peninsula & west iceland.

You’ll start your day with a great breakfast, which will set the tone for an entire day of cascading waterfalls, imperious mountains and coal-black beaches. The first stop, Ytri Tunga, will treat you to wild beaches and friendly seals. Nearby you can discover two secluded villages and a large statue of a half-man half-troll, commonly found in Icelandic sagas.

As you pick your way along the jagged cliffs, you will soon find yourself at Londrangar, a craggy rock formation reminiscent of a castle. It looms over a black-pebble beach and an abandoned fishing area, both of which serve the atmosphere.

Your remaining drive along the coast features green meadows, mighty glaciers and the famous stratovolcano described in Jules Verne’s Journey to the Centre of the Earth . You’ll make your final stop at Kirkjufell mountain and waterfall as well as a few other attractions before you get to rest in a comfy bed.

• Arnarstapi & Hellnar villages
• Londrangar & Djupalonssandur beach
• Mt. Kirkjufell
• Accmmodation

Fosshotel Stykkisholmur

Day 3 - hvalfjörður & the golden circle.

The hotel will treat you to a traditional Icelandic breakfast to kickstart your journey . You’ll pass the town of Borgarnes and visit the second-highest waterfall in Iceland before you begin the famous Golden Circle. Thingvellir National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site with otherworldly topography, is your first of the three Golden Circle stops.

The meeting place of the first Icelandic parliament and Mid-Atlantic Ridge are located there as well. To put things into perspective, you’ll see the origins of the world’s oldest continuously running democratic institution and two tectonic plates moving apart.

As you proceed along the route, you’ll visit a village famous for geothermal pools, the Secret Lagoon, and the iconic Geyser area, a phenomenon so stunning it gave birth to the English word geyser.

You’ll close the Golden Circle with the roaring Gullfoss Waterfall. If you make it there early, you can book a glacier snowmobiling tour on the Langjokull Glacier for an additional fee.

• Thingvellir National Park
• Gullfoss Waterfall

Hotel Hella

Day 4 - south coast & glacier hike.

On day four, your adventure starts with a nutritious breakfast. As you travel toward the South Coast, you’ll catch a glimpse of the capricious Hekla Volcano and visit Hella and Hvolsvöllur villages.

Today lots of waterfalls will be visited, the first two feature water falling from angles you didn’t know were possible. The highlight of the first waterfall is a cave that lets you see the waterfall from behind and the second waterfall is hiding in a sheer canyon, making them both outstanding sights.

After mesmerizing waterfalls, you'll reach the Sólheimajökull glacier - where your glacier adventure takes place. Our expert glacier guides will wait for you at the booking office and take you out to discover the pristine snow and vast, white landscapes with black volcanic ashes.

Next comes another waterfall, the glorious Skogafoss with its cascading glacial water. Breathtaking panoramas come as an award, but before long you’ll have to start making your way to the main highlight, two coal-black beaches and jaw-dropping lava rock formations.

• Seljalandsfoss & Gljúfrabúi waterfalls
• Glacier Hike
• Skogafoss Waterfall
• Glacier hiking tour

Day 5 - Glaciers and Lagoons

You’ll start your morning by a picturesque drive featuring moss-covered lava fields and black sand beaches. The route will take you through the dramatic countryside all the way to Skaftafell/Vatnajökull National Park.

In Skaftafell/Vatnajökull National Park you can stop at the visitor center and continue your adventure by going for a little hike to Svartifoss waterfall surrounded by black lava columns. Ice-cold meltwater from Svinafellsjokull glacier tumbles down 20 meters (80 ft) over a cliff and feeds the famous Svartifoss waterfall.

The legendary Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon and the Diamond Beach are the last stop. With floating bright blue icebergs that contrast against the black beaches, this sight will crown what was already an eventful day.

• Skaftafell National Park & Svartifoss Waterfall
• Fjallsarlon Glacier Lagoon
• Diamond Beach & Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon

Adventure Hotel Geirland

Day 6 - south coast to reykjavik.

After breakfast, you will start heading back toward Reykjavik. First up are rocks so peculiar they have earned a status as a natural monument. Then your itinerary will take you to two waterfalls known mostly to the locals. Iceland’s version of the Grand Canyon is the third stop on your itinerary. While not as grand in size, with all the moss-covered rocks and blue icy waters, this river canyon excites and delights in equal measure.

Two idyllic Icelandic towns are included in your journey: one known for its contribution to shaping Iceland’s cultural landscape and the other for being a historical trading center and a fishing town.

Once in Reykjavik, you can choose from an array of restaurant and bar suggestions tailored for you to get the most out of the buzzing capital.

• Fjadrargljufur
• Stjórnarfoss & Systrafoss waterfalls
• Eldhraun lava field

Hotel Island

Day 7 - around reykjavik.

The itinerary of your last day on this self-drive is more flexible. You’ll get a bunch of suggestions you can pick and choose from depending on where and when you’re dropping off your car. They will include something for everyone’s taste, from the famous Kleifarvatn crater lake to a crack between two continents.

We suggest that you finish strong by visiting the Blue Lagoon. This landmark of Iceland’s spectacular nature will serve as the perfect way to relax and share memories of your trip while soaking in mineral-rich waters. Please note that the ticket to the Blue Lagoon is not included in the price of your tour.

• Blue Lagoon
• Selected towns and nature attractions

What is a self-drive tour?

Self-drive tour is a package tour that includes accommodation, car rental and suggested itinerary. The tours are self-guided but we provide you with information to make sure you know where to go and what to see, as well as general practical information about Iceland.

Included with our tours are accommodation and car rental, as described for each tour, itinerary with suggested points of interest along the way, GPS points for each stop (accommodation, activities, points of interest), and a detailed self-drive handbook with lots of practical information.

Which hotels will we be staying in? What category are they?

We use a very varied mix of local accommodations.

Comfort rooms   are private rooms with private bathroom in guesthouses, hotels, motels, lodges, etc. Approximately 3-star rating.

Budget rooms   are private rooms with shared bathroom at guesthouses, hostels, hotels, etc. Approximately 2-star rating.

Which type of vehicle do you recommend?

4WD vehicles are recommended during winter months (October – April) but it doesn’t need to be a jeep, it is safest to drive a vehicle that you are comfortable with so if you’re not used to driving large cars then a smaller, but 4WD, might be a better option. In summer any vehicle is good, depending on how many are traveling together, how much luggage you carry along and how much you’re willing to pay.

How much time will we spend in the car every day?

This depends on the itinerary, some are faster paced while others are more relaxed. Days can range from 200-400 km, though very few days exceed 350 km. Of course you are your own driver and guide while on a self drive tour so you are free to make detours as you wish.

What kind of insurance do I need?

It is always a good idea to make sure you have good travel insurance, as you never know what might happen while in a foreign country. Sure it costs a bit extra, but it can take a load off the mind and end up being totally worth it in case something should happen.

Take a look at what type of insurance is provided with your credit card, alternatively buy special travel insurance from an insurance provider.

As for the car rental, you can opt to buy extra insurance at the time of collecting the car. It may be wise to buy extra insurance such as windshield protection, as a cracked windshield from a stone being thrown off another car is among the most common incidents on Icelandic roads.

Other extra car insurances would be for example sand and ash protection, or additional insurance to lower the self-risk in case of an incident.

Can the itinerary be changed?

Our self drive adventures have been optimized for the best value experience, which includes doing some thrilling activities in the amazing Icelandic nature. As the packages are offered at the best possible price no partial refunds or modifications to the itinerary can be permitted. That includes opting out of an included activity and getting a refund for that activity. You can, of course, choose not to do the activity but as mentioned there would be no partial refunds of the package price.

What do I do when I have a problem while traveling?

You should contact the service provider in question: If there is a problem with the car, contact the car rental. If you have troubles finding the hotel (which shouldn’t happen as you will be provided with the address and GPS coordinates), you should call the hotel.

If you have questions about an activity, contact the activity provider. You will receive all the necessary contact information from us.

Can I add twin bed for my accommodation?

We cannot guarantee twin beds but a large majority of our hotels can accommodate twin bed arrangements and clients can contact the hotels directly after purchase to request a twin bed arrangement.

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Iceland Ring Road in a Week

One week, one legendary route

The Ring Road, aka Route 1, is the most popular road trip in Iceland. On this 7-day self-drive tour, you’ll follow this epic route past lava fields, waterfalls, mountains, and glaciers.

If you want to pack a whole load of Iceland’s natural wonders into just 1 week, this is the trip for you. You’ll get to see all of the most popular attractions in the comfort of your own car. Stop where you like, and crank up the tunes!

On this tour you will...

Complete the  classic Golden Circle  route

Experience the tranquility of the  Eastfjords region

Feel the power of Iceland’s  wondrous waterfalls

Admire  gnarly lava formations in North Iceland

Get up close to glaciers in  Vatnajökull National Park

Have the chance to  spot whales  and  puffins

Top attractions

Geysir and Strokkur

Þingvellir National Park

Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon

Vatnajökull Glacier & National Park

Seljalandsfoss

Skaftafell Nature Reserve

Lake Mývatn

Hraunfossar and Barnafoss

Why book a self-drive trip with Iceland Tours?

Start your tour on the date that suits you

24/7 emergency helpline in Iceland

Secure your booking with just a 5% deposit

New rental cars with 2 drivers as standard

Handpicked local accommodation options

Best Price Guarantee

Your 7-day self-drive itinerary

Day 1 – welcome to iceland.

Your memorable, Iceland adventure begins the very moment you arrive at Keflavík Airport. Once you pick up your rental vehicle, you’ll head directly for Reykjavík and your exciting, first night in Iceland.

Downtown Reykjavík

Extra activities

FlyOver Iceland

Sky Lagoon Pure Pass

Puffin Watching

Classic Whale Watching from Reykjavík

The Reykjavík Food Walk

Horse Riding from Reykjavík

Inside the Volcano tour from Bláfjöll

Day 2 – Waterfalls and Akureyri, the capital of the north

Your next day’s journey continues toward the northern part of Iceland, ending in the north’s capital, Akureyri. As you head toward Borgarfjörður, we recommend stopping by the magnificent Hraunfossar waterfalls, where the water seems to magically flows from the lava bed into the river below. You’ll then continue your journey toward Akureyri, passing through Skagafjörður, known for exceptional horse breeding; in fact, many stunning Icelandic horses can be seen on your drive

Day 3 – Goðafoss waterfall and Lake Mývatn

The whole day is dedicated to the marvels of Lake Mývatn Nature Reserve known as one of Iceland’s most fascinating areas of natural beauty. On the way to Mývatn you must make a stop at the impressive waterfall Goðafoss “The fall of the gods”. One of its main attractions near Mývatn is the Námaskarð geothermal area where you will find bubbling mud pools and hissing steam vents. You must not miss the Krafla area with the crater Víti and the Leirhnjúkur area. Later on you can venture a walk up to the top of Hverfjall crater or dip into the geothermal water of the natural baths located east of the Lake.

Day 4 – Eastfjords

Today is the day to discover the Eastfjords. Start towards the fjord Reyðarfjörður, where a small-but-fascinating World War II history museum is located, and continue along the fjords toward Southeast Iceland. At times, the road hangs precariously high on the mountain slopes. Finally, you drive through the tunnel of Almannaskarð to arrive in the Höfn region, where you will spend that night.

Day 5 – Skaftafell Nature Reserve, Jökulsárlón glacier lagoon, and waterfalls

Your next stop is Iceland’s scenic southeast. After passing various outlet glaciers belonging to Vatnajökull, Europe’s largest ice cap, you’ll arrive at the stunningly surreal beauty of Jökulsárlón, a glacier lagoon. This exceptional sight sits at the foot of Iceland’s highest mountain, Hvannadalshnúkur.

Skaftafell Nature Reserve is another area definitely worth a visit. This oasis, surrounded by glaciers and black sand plains, offers a broad range of options for great hiking. Continue through Kirkjubæjarklaustur village, the Eldhraun lava field and the Mýrdalssandur plain, before you arrive in the Vík area. We recommend you stop at Reynisfjara beach; a black sand beach famous for the Reynisdrangar rock stacks that rise from the sea just off the shore and for its basalt columns.

You can also stop at Dyrhólaey cape, which is the southernmost point of Iceland. Continue westbound; the village of Skógar is the next place of interest with its beautiful waterfall and the local folk museum. As you continue towards Hella you can stop at Seljalandsfoss waterfall, where you can actually walk behind the waterfall. You then follow the main road to arrive in Hella.

Day 6 – Golden Circle

Continue westbound to the south coast of Iceland and explore the Golden Circle, which takes you to the most popular tourist attractions in Iceland: Gullfoss, Geysir, and Þingvellir National Park.

Your day will end in Reykjavík where you will spend your last night in Iceland.

Day 7 – Departure

It seems as if your journey to fabulous Iceland only began a moment ago, but now it is time to head back home, driving back to Keflavík Airport for your flight. Depending on your flight’s time, you may be able to squeeze in a last day in Reykjavík or an extra night in there to experience all the amazing things that the city has to offer.

What’s included?

Detailed itinerary

Budget, Comfort, or Quality accommodation every night

Continental breakfast every day

Rental car of your choice for 6 days

2 authorized drivers as standard

Unlimited in-car Wi-Fi

Unlimited mileage

Collision damage waiver

24/7 emergency helpline when you’re in Iceland

VAT, taxes & service fees

Flights to Iceland

Food & drink, unless otherwise stated

Attraction entrance fees, unless otherwise stated

Fuel & parking charges

Personal travel insurance

Accommodation

FAQs about our self-drive trips

How does an iceland self-drive trip work.

On a self-drive trip with Iceland Tours, you’ll be at the wheel of the rental car of your choice and free to go pretty much where you want, whenever you want.

We provide a detailed itinerary to help you plan your route and where you want to stop along the way. But it’s up to you whether you want to stick to it or go your own way. If you do take detours, make sure that you aren’t too far from your accommodation on any given night.

That said, it’s a good idea to stick to the suggested itinerary if you’ve never visited Iceland before. Created by our Reykjavík-based travel experts, it contains plenty of things for you to and see and do on each leg of your trip. One thing’s for sure: you won’t be short on ideas!

You also get unlimited in-car Wi-Fi, so you can stay connected and use maps on your phone for navigation.

Can I drive in Iceland and what kind of license do I need?

You have to be at least 20 years old to rent a car in Iceland, or 23 years old for larger vehicles like jeeps and vans. You’ll need to have held a valid driver’s license for at least 1 year and present a credit card when you collect your car.

You don’t need an International Driving Permit unless your license is not in Latin script (for example, Arabic or Chinese).

Find out more about car rental in Iceland .

Can I customize this self-drive trip?

Yes! It’s possible to add extra activities or extend your trip with additional nights in Reykjavík or the countryside. Check the itinerary above to see what activities are available on what day.

When will I receive my travel documents?

Once you’ve paid your deposit for your trip, we’ll finalize bookings for your accommodation, rental car, and any activities. As soon as we receive confirmation of everything, we’ll email your travel documents to you.

We aim to finalize everything within a few weeks of receiving your booking request, but in busy periods this might take longer. That said, you’ll always receive all of your documents before your departure date.

When and where can I pick up my rental car?

You’ll be able to pick up your rental car at Keflavík International Airport from the arrivals hall. Before your trip, we’ll send you information about where to go in the terminal to collect your keys.

Make sure you have your driver’s license and credit card ready when you collect your vehicle.

If you land late at night, you can use the out-of-hours phone at the pick-up desk to contact someone who will be able to help you.

You also have the option to collect your rental car in Reykjavík, if you’re planning to spend some extra days in the city before your trip starts. If you’d like to do this, please let us know in the ‘Special requests’ box at checkout.

Don’t take our word for it

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Ultimate 19-Day Self-Drive Tour Around Iceland

Description

Embark on the trip of a lifetime with this incredible 19-day tour around Iceland. If you want to immerse yourself in the spectacular landscapes of the land of ice and fire, take thrilling adventures that you can't do anywhere else on Earth, and travel on your terms, this is the vacation for you.

On this epic self-drive vacation in Iceland, you will not just traverse the Ring Road that fully encircles the country but also visit the remote Westfjords, the spectacular Snaefellsnes Peninsula, and the magnificent Highlands. 

You don't have to spend weeks planning the perfect itinerary for Iceland, as this has all been done for you and at a great price. People love this tour, and it's very highly rated.

The features that make Iceland an appealing vacation destination will be on your agenda, such as volcanoes, glaciers, hot springs, waterfalls, and fjords. You don't have to worry about missing out on anything.

As you travel leisurely, you will stay at countryside hotels scattered across the island's most beautiful corners. You will spend some evenings in towns like Akureyri and Reykjavik, immersing yourself in Iceland's history and culture. 

Getting to your accommodation and any chosen excursions are the only obligations you'll have to meet on this tour, as you will be driving yourself, and how you spend each day is entirely up to you.

After booking, you will be sent a comprehensive itinerary detailing all the famous sites and hidden gems you can reach, allowing you to tailor your trip to your group's passions and needs. 

With this package, you will get a personal travel agent that you can reach any time of the day, seven days a week. If your plans change, you can cancel for free up to 24 hours before departure.

This tour is a summer self-drive, so your sightseeing hours can extend well into the night due to the light of the midnight sun.

When booking, you can arrange additional excursions so you can pack almost every day with adventure. 

Seeing the crystal-clear waters of Silfra fissure on a snorkeling tour, witnessing humpbacks on a whale-watching tour from Husavik, descending into a magma chamber, and hiking magnificent glaciers are just a few examples of what is on offer.

You will have plenty of opportunities to bathe in the healing geothermal waters that make Iceland a famous spa destination, including some immersed in nature.

Taking 19 days to explore the wonders of Iceland allows you to truly make the most of the country's landscapes without rushing, providing you with opportunities to find spectacular features few other travelers have time to reach. 

Furthermore, it allows you to learn more about this island's fascinating folklore, which is intrinsically tied to the untouched wilderness.

Take advantage of this once-in-a-lifetime, 19-day summer vacation to Iceland. Check availability now by choosing a date.

Destinations

Attractions

Travel details

Premium car

Personalize your itinerary

Day 1 – reykjavík.

• Reykjavík - Arrival day

On day one of your 19-day self-drive vacation in Iceland, you will land at the Keflavik International Airport and pick up your rental car as soon as you clear customs. This private car will be your trusted vehicle to bring you to the most beautiful sites of the land of fire and ice.

If you arrive later in the day or in the evening, you can take the scenic drive to Iceland's capital city, Reykjavik, across the Reykjanes Peninsula. However, those who arrive early could start their immersion into Iceland's nature.

On your way to Iceland's capital city, you could choose to make a stop at the Blue Lagoon. This world-renowned spa is known for its healing waters, vivid azure colors, and luxurious treatments. It is located in the middle of a moss-covered lava field, giving it an otherworldly atmosphere.

If you add the Blue Lagoon, it will be arranged according to your flights. If there is no time to visit the lagoon today, it can be added to another day. Your travel consultant will be able to arrange this for you.

Alternatively, you could explore the Reykjanes Peninsula itself. A volcanic wasteland, you will travel across otherworldly lava fields, see countless cone-shaped peaks, and marvel over its seething geothermal areas.

Once you arrive in Reykjavik, if you have time, you should have a quick look around the city since you'll be spending most of your vacation away from the city, in Iceland's nature. It is a beautiful capital with a thriving cultural scene and lively nightlife.

Some of the most notable attractions of the city include the Hallgrimskirkja church, Harpa Concert Hall and Conference Center, Tjornin pond, and the Perlan museum. You can also head to the Old Harbor for a view of the picturesque Faxafloi bay surrounding Reykjavik.

You will spend the night at your accommodation in Reykjavik.

Experiences

Accommodation, day 2 – snæfellsnes.

• Snæfellsnes
• Borg a Myrum church and farm
• Hraunfossar & Barnafoss waterfalls
• Reykholt historical site
• Deildartunguhver hot spring

You will begin your Ring Road adventure on the second day of your Icelandic self-drive vacation, starting with West Iceland. West Iceland is a fantastic place to start your travels, as it boasts beautiful natural attractions and a wealth of culture. Furthermore, there are three options for a tour you can take today.

After you leave Reykjavik, you will either pass under the Hvalfjordur tunnel to reach the significant sites more quickly or encircle the beautiful fjord for the scenic route. 

Nestled in Hvalfjordur is Glymur waterfall, Iceland's second-tallest waterfall, which you can hike through a beautiful valley of wildflowers and birch trees.

You will then come to Borgarnes, a charming coastal town that boasts the Settlement Centre Exhibition. If you want to learn how Old Norse Vikings discovered and settled this land over a millennium ago and how they survived under harsh conditions, be sure to pay a visit.

The next significant sites in the area are two waterfalls, Hraunfossar and Barnafoss. Though just a few minutes walk away from each other, they are very different. 

Hraunfossar waterfall pours through petrified lava, more a series of tiny waterfalls than one distinct one. Barnafoss waterfall, meanwhile, is a furious waterfall that surges through a narrow valley.

Following your time here, you'll head to Deildartunghver hot spring, Europe's highest-flowing hot spring. Not only is it a beautiful site, but it fuels the nearby Krauma geothermal spa. You can bask in the therapeutic waters here to break up your day of sightseeing.

Those who would rather embark on an adventure than enjoy a spa visit have two enticing alternatives. 

The first of these is a classic lava-caving adventure. Vidgelmir lava cave is a fascinating underground tunnel with unexpectedly vivid colors and unusual features formed by a volcanic eruption over a thousand years ago.

Otherwise, you could take an ice tunnel tour. On this excursion, which you can't take anywhere else on earth, you'll take a super jeep up the magnificent slopes of Langjokull glacier. 

You'll find a gleaming tunnel carved into its depths at its summit, which your guide will lead you through. The chambers and corridors are mesmerizing and provide insight into the workings of the ice caps.

Reykholt, home to legendary medieval chieftain Snorri Sturluson, is worth a visit for those interested in history, whereas Eldborg Crater provides beautiful views over the landscapes of the west.

You'll finish your day at a hotel on the Snaefellsnes Peninsula, ready to explore it in depth tomorrow.

Day 3 – Snæfellsnes

• Ytri Tunga Beach
• Budir hamlet
• Londrangar Basalt Cliffs
• Snaefellsjokull
• Kirkjufell Mountain

On the third day of your 19-day self-drive tour of Iceland, you'll explore the magnificent shores of the Snaefellsnes Peninsula. Nicknamed 'Iceland in Miniature,' this region has a diverse range of unforgettable sites.

As you travel along the southern shore, you'll first see a strange phenomenon on the cliffs of Gerduberg. They are lined with hexagonal columns, so perfect it almost appears as if they have been carved. 

Turning to the coast a little further down the road, you will likely see plenty of seals playing and resting, part of the colony on Ytri Tunga beach. 

Next, you will find the abandoned village of Budir, of which just a beautiful black church remains.

You will then come to the highlight of the peninsula, Snaefellsjokull National Park. This area is named after the subglacial volcano of Snaefellsjokull, a monumental feature with two peaks topped with white ice.

The glacier is one of many attractions in the national park. It also has the charming fishing village of Arnarstapi, which boasts stunning coastal geology, such as the Gatklettur rock arch. Meanwhile, the deserted settlement of Hellnar has a mystical air of abandonment.

The black sand beach of Djupalonssandur is home to the four 'lifting stones,' which historically were used by fishermen to test their strength. Londrangar is an enormous basalt plug that is home to thousands of nesting seabirds in summer.

Once you leave the national park and travel along the northern shore, you'll have spectacular views over Breidafjordur bay to the Westfjords. 

You'll find plenty of opportunities to stop and admire the villages, such as Bjarnahofn, home to the Icelandic Shark Museum. Here, you can learn how Icelanders create the delicacy of hakarl or fermented shark.

The highlight of this part of the Snaefellesnes Peninsula is Kirkjufell mountain, a church-shaped mountain featured in Game of Thrones. Incredibly statuesque, you can admire the feature from all angles, including the sea, if you book a kayaking tour today. 

Kayaking around Kirkjufell mountain is not just a unique experience but also provides you with a chance to have an incredible wildlife experience with seabirds and seals.

After you have explored the magnificent Snaefellsnes Peninsula, you'll return to your hotel in the region for the night.

Day 4 – Westfjords

• Rauðisandur red sand beach

On the fourth day of your 19-day summer vacation in Iceland, you'll leave the Snaefellsnes Peninsula for one of Iceland's most remote regions, the Westfjords. It is the least visited region in Iceland, so there are fewer travelers to bump here into.

Before you head to Stykkisholmur, where your ferry is waiting, you can head to any local sites you missed the day before. The ferry that will take you from the Snaefellsnes Peninsula to the Westfjords is large enough to take your car and will provide you with beautiful views over both regions and countless islands. 

If you wish, you can stop at one of these, the beautiful Flatey island. Sleepy, picturesque, and historical, this is a wonderful place to take a serene walk and look out for the local birds. 

Cars are not allowed on the island. Yours will be parked at the harbor in the Westfjords ahead of you. Once your ferry journey is complete and you've reclaimed your vehicle, you can begin exploring one of the world's most scenic regions. 

The plunging fjords, the flat-topped mountains, the countless waterfalls, and the tiny villages all make driving here an incredible pleasure.

Though you will find plenty of viewing stops and detours to enjoy, two sites are highly recommended to visit today. 

The first is Raudasandur beach, a beautiful beach unlike most others around the country. Rather than black volcanic sands, it has a golden, pinky hue, making it a spectacular place to walk.

The second is Latrabjarg, the longest set of birdwatching cliffs in Europe. Here, you can find hundreds of thousands of nesting pairs throughout summer, including puffins. Puffins aren't scared of people, so you can get surprisingly close to them.

After an excellent day in the Westfjords, you'll head to your accommodation in the coastal village of Patreksfjordur or one its nearby settlements.

Day 5 – Westfjords

On the fifth day of your summer self-drive tour of Iceland, you will set out from Patreksfjordur and continue your journey navigating the Westfjords. 

As you drive up and down the fjords and cross mountain passes, you'll appreciate the lack of other people in this area. Few travelers reach this part of the country due to its distance from Reykjavik, allowing you to enjoy the sites and wilderness in peace.

Though most of the wonders of the Westfjords are found along its coastline, you will want to detour inland to visit the mighty Dynjandi waterfall. 

This waterfall stands at an impressive 328 feet (100 meters) tall and cascades down what appears to be a staircase descending a cliff face, widening as it does. No other waterfall in Iceland resembles this attraction, making it the favorite of many travelers.

Walking to Dynjandi waterfall is also a pleasure in itself. The easy trail has many other waterfalls along its route, and though all are small, each is beautiful and has a unique appeal.

Another fantastic attraction today is the settlement of Flateyri. Though it appears to be a typical village of the Westfjords, it has a range of unique features as well as spectacular surroundings and peaceful charm. 

It is home to both the Nonsense Museum and an International Doll Museum, it has a sandy beach, and its pool has outdoor hot tubs.

A long drive along the fjords is required to reach your final destination for today, the town of Isafjordur. Be sure to keep an eye out for wildlife on your journey, as the Westfjords boasts arctic foxes inland and seals, dolphins, and whales in its waters.

Isafjordur, the region's capital, has some of the most magnificent surroundings of any Icelandic town. It also boasts a strong identity and thriving culture that you can immerse yourself in.

You will spend another night in the Westfjords of Iceland.

Day 6 – Northwest Iceland

• Northwest Iceland

On day six of your self-drive Icelandic vacation, you will continue to explore the Westfjords. It's good to spend a few days here to appreciate the area's diversity, beauty, and remoteness.

Before starting your journey south, take a brief detour northwest to visit the picturesque fishing village of Bolungarvik. 

Stunning landscapes, including dramatic mountains and tranquil fjords, surround the town. It's known for its rich maritime heritage, as fishing has been a way of life here for centuries.

The views from the harbor here are magnificent, and the settlement has some fascinating folklore surrounding it. It is said that it was once the home of two sibling sorcerers who were at war with each other.

Once you begin your journey away from Isafjordur and Bolungarvik, the next major attraction is the Arctic Fox Center, a renowned research and exhibition facility in Sudavik. The center is dedicated to the conservation and study of the Arctic fox. 

Here, you can meet and learn about Iceland's only native land mammal and discover how it survived for thousands of years in such harsh conditions before humans even knew the land existed.

Your next major destination is the town of Holmavik, home to the fascinating Museum of Witchcraft and Sorcery. The museum has many fascinating and morbid displays, including some necropants, a pair of pants made from human skin. 

You can learn more here about how Icelanders attempted to use magic to protect their families, ward off evil, and cast curses upon their neighbors. 

Nearby, you can find the Sorcerer's Cottage. It is modeled on a medieval turf house with many hidden staves, the primary way spells were cast.

After another day enjoying the beauty and culture of the Westfjords, you'll depart the region and head to Northwest Iceland, where you can find your accommodation for the night.

Day 7 – North Iceland

• North Iceland
• Hvítserkur Rock Stack
• Holar i Hjaltadal
• Troll Peninsula

On the seventh day of your self-drive tour, you'll begin your exploration of North Iceland. This region boasts incredible diversity and plenty of hidden gems you'll get to see during this trip.

You can find the first of these on the Vatnsnes Peninsula. This coastal area is home to several seal colonies you can see from the shore and the Icelandic Seal Center, a fantastic place to learn about their biology, history, and conservation. 

It is also home to the striking rock monolith of Hvitserkur. This rock formation, 49 feet (15 meters) tall, is said to be a troll in Icelandic folklore, but it more closely resembles an elephant.

After these sites, detour a short distance to Glaumbaer, a farmstead where you can find historic turf houses. 

Icelandic turf houses are traditional dwellings constructed with stone and turf. These unique structures blend seamlessly with the natural landscape, providing excellent insulation against Iceland's harsh weather conditions. They are a testament to the ingenuity and resourcefulness of the Icelandic people throughout history.

As you continue, you can visit plenty of stunning coastal towns. Hofsos has a spectacular infinity pool, whereas Siglufjordur has stunning views of the fjord and the award-winning Herring Era Museum.

The Herring Era Museum is a captivating museum that commemorates the town's rich history during the herring fishing boom in the early 20th century. Through engaging exhibits, artifacts, and multimedia presentations, visitors can delve into the fascinating world of herring fishing and experience the vibrant atmosphere of the era.

Arskogssandur is also particularly notable, as it is home to the unique Beer Baths, a geothermal spa where you can bathe in tubs of fermenting beer. Adults are welcome to enjoy a pint as they relax during this revitalizing experience.

Your final destination of the day is Akureyri, the capital of the north. 

This town has beautiful architecture, lovely harbor views, plenty of cultural attractions, and bars, boutiques, and restaurants that you can explore.

You will spend the night in a cozy accommodation in North Iceland.

Day 8 – Northeast Iceland

• Northeast Iceland
• Godafoss Waterfall
• Asbyrgi canyon
• Dettifoss waterfall
• Lake Myvatn Area

On the eighth day of your self-drive vacation in Iceland, you'll continue to explore the region of North Iceland by visiting some of the magnificent Diamond Circle sightseeing route sites. 

This route is often done in one day, but you will have two days to explore to spend plenty of time at each place.

Your first stop is the town of Husavik. There are two tours you can take from here. You could embark on a whale-watching excursion, as this settlement is often nicknamed the whale-watching capital of Europe. 

The waters outside Husavik boast many humpback whales throughout summer, and other species, such as orcas, blue whales, and fin whales, are occasionally seen. On this trip, there will also be plenty of chances to see puffins.

The second tour in Husavik is a trip to the GeoSea Geothermal Baths. This seaside spa is fantastic for admiring the sea from its geothermally heated waters. You will bathe in saltwater here, which is said to have many healing properties for the mind, body, and soul.

You can book both a whale-watching tour and entry to the GeoSea Baths today, but travelers who take this option may not have time to drive to the following two attractions today comfortably.

The next sights today are the Dettifoss waterfall and the Asybyrgi canyon. The former is Europe's most powerful waterfall, which thunders into the canyon below. Two more impressive falls, Selfoss Waterfall and Hafragilsfoss waterfall, are just downriver from this magnificent sight.

Asybyrgi is a dramatic canyon shaped like a horseshoe, which is said to be the imprint of the hoof of the steed of Odin. Within it is an enormous forest of birch trees and a spectacular island of rock, making it a magnificent place to hike.

After you have enjoyed these sites, you'll head to the Lake Myvatn area, where you will spend the next day exploring. 

Your day ends with a relaxing time in your accommodation in Northeast Iceland.

Day 9 – Northeast Iceland

On day nine of your self-drive tour of Iceland, you have two options for how to spend your day. 

You could explore the incredible Lake Myvatn area in-depth, alongside some other northern attractions, or you could embark on a super jeep and hiking tour in the untouched Icelandic Highlands.

The Lake Myvatn area is packed with attractions. As its name suggests, it has a series of beautiful lakes teeming with fauna and flora in summer, including an abundance of birds. 

The geology is fascinating here, with basalt lava columns towering from the waters and pseudocraters lining the shores.

The Dimmuborgir lava fortress sits adjacent to the lakes, a marvelous place used as a filming location in Game of Thrones. It is also steeped in folklore and is said to be the home of the Icelandic Christmas trolls or Yule Lads.

It is not just geological wonders that the area holds. There are also geothermal marvels. 

Namaskard Pass is a prime example. Contrasting dramatically with the bursting life around the lakes, this barren stretch is lined with steaming fumaroles and hissing vents. The earth is dyed different colors by the rising elements.

A more relaxing place to enjoy North Iceland's geothermal phenomena is the Myvatn Nature Baths, a spa immersed in the beautiful landscapes. You can arrange your trip here when booking.

If you choose to visit the Highlands instead, you will be picked up early in the morning by an experienced guide who will take you on a thrilling adventure to the Askja caldera. 

This tour begins with an epic super jeep ride into the spectacular interior of the caldera, where you'll get views of mountains, glaciers, craters, and volcanoes far from any crowds.

When you begin to hike, you'll see even more incredible landscapes. The Askja caldera is part of the rugged Dyngjufjoll mountain range and is renowned for its crater lakes. The most impressive of these is the Viti explosion crater, the waters of which are geothermally heated, so make sure you bring your swimsuit for a hot spring bath like no other.

However you spend your day, it will be filled with adventure. You'll return to your accommodation in Northeast Iceland for the night.

Day 10 – Eastfjords

• Hallormsstadaskogur Forest
• Lake Lagarfljót

On the tenth day of your summer vacation in Iceland, you'll leave North Iceland for the spectacular east. 

Before you head east, you will have time to visit the sights of North Iceland that you had yet to get to over the past two days, such as Lake Myvatn, Dettifoss waterfall, and Asbyrgi Canyon.

The drive from Myvatn to Egilsstadir, the capital of East Iceland, takes you along the Ring Road and through some incredible mountain landscapes with views of volcanoes, lava fields, and Vatnajokull glacier, Europe's most significant ice cap. 

If you managed to visit all the sites you wished to in the Myvatn area, you could take detours to sights in the Highlands that few others visit.

Egilsstadir itself is a lovely town with a wealth of surrounding sights. It sits on Lake Lagarfljot, a mysterious place that is said to hold a beast similar to the Loch Ness Monster. 

Just to the south is the country's largest forest, Hallormsstadaskogar, which boasts many hiking and biking routes and birdwatching hot spots.

Half an hour south of the town are the twin waterfalls of Hengifoss and Litlanesfoss. 

Standing at an impressive height of 420 feet (128 meters), the Hengifoss waterfall is known for its striking beauty and unique geological features. The waterfall cascades down a magnificent cliff face adorned with vibrant layers of red and black basalt columns, creating a mesmerizing visual spectacle. 

Hengifoss waterfall is a natural wonder and a testament to Iceland's geological history, making it a must-visit destination for nature enthusiasts and photographers alike.

As visitors hike towards Hengifoss waterfall, they are treated to stunning panoramic views of the surrounding landscape, including the nearby Litlanesfoss waterfall. 

To unwind after a day of stunning sightseeing, dip in the Vok Baths, immersed in a serene lake surrounded by peaks.

There are no other geothermal spas in this part of the country, meaning you will want to take advantage of this.

When you're ready, you'll head to your accommodation in East Iceland.

Day 11 – Eastfjords

• Vopnafjörður
• Borgarfjordur eystri fjord and valley

On day 11 of your 19-day self-drive tour of Iceland, you'll have an opportunity to explore the Eastfjords of Iceland in-depth, visiting incredible places far off the beaten track for most travelers. 

While you can make your own plans, spending the day at either Borgarfjordur Eystri or Seydisfjordur village is the most highly recommended option.

Borgarfjordur Eystri is a spectacular coastal wilderness with black sand beaches, dramatic fjords, and abundant wildlife. Reindeer, foxes, seals, dolphins, and whales are occasionally seen. 

There are also several hiking routes in the area, the most picturesque of which is Storund. This moderate-level hike offers outdoor enthusiasts a unique opportunity to explore the rugged beauty of the remote Icelandic wilderness. 

The trail winds through picturesque valleys, traverses moss-covered lava fields, and meanders alongside babbling streams. Hikers are rewarded with awe-inspiring views of majestic mountains, cascading waterfalls, and expansive fjords along the way. 

Those interested in folklore will find several points on this route, particularly of note due to the area's association with the Hidden People, or elves, who are said to inhabit Iceland's landscapes.

Seydisfjordur, meanwhile, is a tiny village nestled in the crook of a narrow, steep-sloped fjord of the same name, allowing for some of the region's most picturesque vistas. 

This is a wonderfully relaxing place to spend a few hours connecting with the authentic local culture.

You can visit both sites within a day, although doing so would be a little rushed. In the region, alternative sights you could head to include Iceland's tallest freestanding mountain, Snaefell, and the Holmanes Nature Reserve.

This coastal reserve boasts diverse ecosystems, including sandy beaches, grassy meadows, and rocky cliffs. 

Visitors can enjoy scenic hikes, birdwatching, and the opportunity to spot seals basking on the shores. The reserve offers a peaceful retreat amidst Iceland's natural beauty.

You'll return to your accommodation in East Iceland for the night.

Day 12 – Southeast Iceland

• Southeast Iceland

On day 12 of your self-drive tour around Iceland, you will travel along the coast as you explore the rest of the magnificent Eastfjords on one of the most incredible road trips imaginable. 

This region is less well-traveled than other spots in Iceland, so you can enjoy the mountains and fjords in peace without hordes of tourists.

As you travel, you will visit countless fishing villages in the most beautiful spots along the coastline. Eskifjordur, Reydarfjordur, and Djupivogur are all examples of stunning settlements, each with its unique character. 

Djupivogur is particularly of note for its coastal hot pools and famous public artwork, the Eggs of Merry Bay. This captivating installation, created by renowned artist Sigurdur Gudmundsson, features thirty-four colossal granite eggs scattered across the picturesque bay. 

Each egg replicates the egg of a different bird species in the area, celebrating the region's rich biodiversity. The meticulously carved and polished eggs glisten under the Icelandic sun, creating a stunning visual spectacle. 

You will likely see a wealth of wildlife as you travel the Eastfjords. The region is home to various seabirds nesting along the shore. Seal colonies relax on the beach, whales and dolphins feed in the waters, and reindeer roam inland. 

East Iceland is the only part of the country where herds of these beautiful creatures can be found in the wild. Reindeers are known for their antlers and sturdy hooves and have the adaptability to survive in these Arctic conditions.

The last significant sites of the Eastfjords are the dramatic mountains of Eystrahorn and Vestrahorn, which are unique for their dark composition of gabbro rock. Photographers often find these a favorite subject due to their distinct contours.

Once you've finished your exploration of the Eastfjords, you'll head to your accommodation for the night in Southeast Iceland.

Day 13 – Southeast Iceland

• Jokulsarlon Glacier Lagoon
• Diamond Beach

On the 13th day of your self-drive vacation, you will explore what has been dubbed the 'Crown Jewel of Iceland's Nature,' the Jokulsarlon glacier lagoon. 

You can spend a few hours at this magical sight, and with a self-drive tour, there's no need to rush.

Jokulsarlon glacier lagoon is Iceland's deepest lake, separated from the ocean by a narrow channel. It connects with a retreating glacier on its far side, which, as it crumbles, fills the water with enormous icebergs. 

Many of these ice chunks emerge many feet above the surface, and all are strikingly beautiful, colored vivid shades of blue and white, with streaks of ash from historical volcanic eruptions.

If you're lucky, you might spot some wildlife here. You can often see seals relaxing on the icebergs or swimming around them, making this experience even more special.

While admiring the lagoon from shore is a lovely experience, those who want something even more memorable should book a boat tour on the water. Depending on your preference, you can navigate the icebergs on an amphibious vessel or a zodiac boat.

The first is a more serene option, and the second is a quick, adrenaline-fuelled ride around the lagoon.

Though Jokulsarlon glacier lagoon is the most famous attraction in the area, two others nearby are also must-visits. 

Diamond Beach is a stunning stretch of shore that becomes the icebergs' resting place when they finally become small enough to escape the lake, their blue and white forms contrasting spectacularly with the black sands, hence the beach's name. 

Fjallsarlon glacier lagoon, meanwhile, is a neighboring lagoon just off the beaten track, with far fewer guests admiring it. Here, you'll be able to watch icebergs fall away from the nearby glacier and listen to the cracking and splashing sounds they make.

After touring these stunning attractions, you'll head to your accommodation in Southeast Iceland.

Day 14 – South Coast

• South Coast
• Skaftafell Nature Reserve
• Fjadrargljufur

To mark the end of your second week in Iceland, you will explore the stunning Skaftafell Nature Reserve on the 14th day of your self-drive road trip. 

This area is part of the great Vatnajokull National Park and is shaped by the forces of ice and fire. Glacier tongues pour from the mountains, lava fields spill through the valley, and birch forests bloom throughout the summer.

Because of these natural features, hiking is incredibly popular in the area. There are plenty of trails, but the most renowned leads to the Svartifoss waterfall. This stunning feature is surrounded by hexagonal basalt columns, contrasting with the foaming white water.

Glacier hiking on the ice cap of Svinafellsjokull glacier is another popular activity. Svinafellsjokull glacier is famous for its fang-like ridges. 

Today, you have two optional excursions, exploring the surrounding area further. One is three hours long, whereas the more adventurous can embark on one over five hours long.

After enjoying the many sites of the Skaftafell Nature Reserve, you will begin your journey along the South Coast of Iceland. 

Along the way, you’ll see a beautiful black sand shoreline that hugs the road to the left while a constantly changing scenery of glaciers, mountains, and lava fields passes to your right.

During the journey, take a detour to Fjadrargjufur canyon, a stunning ravine around 1.2 miles (2 kilometers) long and approximately 328 feet (100 meters) deep. 

Hiking here is a beautiful way to break up the journey, and it is possible to do so both above and within the canyon. Those taking the latter route should bring sandals or waterproof shoes, as a shallow river flows through the valley.

As you continue towards Vik, you will find plenty of other sightseeing stops to enjoy. The beautiful village is surrounded by stunning coastal views and inland attractions you can explore tomorrow.

You will spend your night in a charming accommodation in South Iceland.

Day 15 – Southwest Iceland

• Southwest Iceland
• Reynisfjara black sand beach
• Reynisdrangar Sea Stacks
• Skogafoss waterfall
• Seljalandsfoss Waterfall

On day 15 of your 19-day self-drive tour of Iceland, you will explore the sights of the South Coast, including ice caves, beaches, and glaciers.

Begin your day with a thrilling tour of the Katla ice cave. From Vik, you'll travel by super jeep to the summit of Myrdalsjokull glacier, the third largest glacier in the country, famous for sitting above the notorious volcano of Katla. 

Once dressed in your safety gear, you'll have the rare opportunity to explore a magical ice cave and its glacial features.

After being escorted back to Vik, visit Reynisfjara beach. This black sand stretch of the coast is renowned for its incredible geology, boasting the sea stacks of Reynisfjara, which tower above the sea offshore. 

According to folklore, these were once two fighting trolls caught in the sunlight and turned to stone.

By the beach is the incredible rock arch of Dyrholaey, which is so vast that ships can easily sail through. The cliffs here are a fantastic puffin-watching spot, with thousands of nesting pairs seen throughout summer.

As you continue along the South Coast, you will see glimpses of Myrdalsjokull and Eyjafjallajokull glaciers through the mountains. You can explore the surface of Myrdalsjokull glacier with an alternate tour today by glacier hiking on the tongue of Solheimajokull glacier. 

The final significant attractions of this afternoon are all beautiful waterfalls. Skogafoss waterfall is the most well-known. It is around 197 feet (60 meters) tall and thunderously powerful, casting spray as it collides with the rocks below. 

Seljalandsfoss waterfall shares its great height but is much more gentle and tumbles before a dramatic canyon.

Gljufrabui waterfall, meanwhile, pours into a hidden grotto that requires you to wade through a stream to reach, creating a mystical ambiance.

At the end of your day of sightseeing, you'll spend the night in one of the countryside towns of Southwest Iceland

Day 16 – Southwest Iceland

Day 16 of your self-drive summer vacation to Iceland can be spent in one of six equally exciting ways, allowing you to visit parts of Iceland many Ring Road travelers do not get the time to see.

Firstly, you could drive to the highland reserve of Landmannalaugar, a spectacular wilderness of colorful rhyolite mountains and geothermal activity. You can spend the day here basking in the natural hot springs surrounded by unbelievable nature, hiking to craters and crater lakes, or both.

Secondly, you could take a super jeep tour to this region, meaning you don't need to worry about driving the highland roads. Taking a super jeep tour also means you will have a friendly guide who can tell you about the area's folklore, geology, and best sights.

Your next choice is to drive to the Thorsmork valley. Another highland area, this forested valley is sheltered by spectacular glacier tongues and has features shaped by the 2010 eruption of Eyjafjallajokull volcano. 

This area was named after the Old Norse God of Thunder, Thor. Again, you have the choice of experiencing this region as part of a guided super jeep tour.

Your fifth option for today is entirely different. Rather than visit the Highlands, you can organize a ferry to the Westman Islands. This stunning archipelago has a fascinating history of pirate attacks and volcanic eruptions. 

You can learn about it at local museums and visit some amazing natural sights like the Eldborg crater.

The Westman Islands boasts the largest colony of Atlantic Puffins in the world, and you can see them in their hundreds of thousands from the shores and cliffs.

Your sixth and final choice today is to check your itinerary and plan a day for yourself. Of course, if you'd like to relax and recharge for the final leg of your holiday, that's an option too.

In the evening, you'll return to your comfortable accommodation in Southwest Iceland, where you'll spend the night.

Day 17 – Reykjavík

• Kerid Crater
• Gullfoss waterfall
• Geysir geothermal area
• Thingvellir National Park

On day 17 of your 19-day summer self-drive vacation in Iceland, you will tour the incredible sites of the Golden Circle sightseeing route. This sightseeing route boasts three famous attractions and plenty of lesser-known ones just off the beaten track.

The first of the main features on the Golden Circle sightseeing route is the two-tier waterfall of Gullfoss, which you can see tumbling into a valley with enormous force. In summer, you can stand on a platform to watch the waterfall and feel its spray on your face. 

The second stop today is the Geysir geothermal area, a valley where you can watch the Strokkur geyser erupt over 66 feet (20 meters) every five minutes.

Finally, you will visit the Thingvellir National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site between two visible tectonic plates. 

The Thingvellir National Park is filled with forests, lava fields, and springs leading to an enormous lake. It is steeped in fascinating history that dates back over a millennium.

You can take an optional tour from the Gullfoss waterfall or the Thingvellir National Park. 

From Gullfoss waterfall, you can take a snowmobiling excursion that whisks you across the slopes of Langjokull glacier, giving you unbelievable views on an adrenaline-pumping adventure. 

Within the Silfra ravine, one of the springs at the Thingvellir National Park, you can snorkel between the continents, with visibility up to 328 feet (100 meters). Participants on the optional snorkeling excursion need to be comfortable in the water and be able to swim.

After enjoying the sights of the Golden Circle, you can visit some of the lesser-known sights in the area. These include the red-rocked crater lake of Kerid, the Secret Lagoon at Fludir, and the Fontana Spa at Laugavatn. 

You will end your day in Iceland’s capital city, Reykjavik, where you can find a restaurant or bar and toast to the end of your thrilling road trip around all of Iceland’s most fantastic attractions. You’ll spend tonight at your accommodation in the city.

Day 18 – Reykjavík

On the penultimate day of your self-drive vacation in Iceland, you will be based in Reykjavik. 

Today, you'll explore Iceland's capital city. You can shop for souvenirs on Laugavegur Street, find the museums and galleries downtown, or relax in a local geothermal pool. 

The most prominent among Reykjavik's geothermal pools is Laugardalslaug, a complex featuring numerous hot tubs, steam baths, and swimming pools. The warm, mineral-rich waters provide a perfect respite from the city's chilly climate, inviting locals and visitors to relax and unwind. 

Nautholsvik is a beautiful sandy beach where a hot tub and a geothermal seawater pool blend, offering a blissful contrast of warmth against the cool ocean breeze.

Alternatively, there are three optional tours you can take today.

If you want to add one more experience in the capital, you could enjoy the incredible FlyOver Iceland ride. You will be suspended over a concave screen and shown a spectacular aerial show of Iceland's landscapes. 

Wind and scent effects make it even more authentic as you dangle mesmerized from your simulated hand glider.

For a tour out in nature, you can embark on a horseback ride, allowing you to meet a friendly Icelandic horse and witness the beautiful wilderness around the capital like an early settler. 

Icelandic horses are known for their friendly nature and unique gait, the tolt, which allows them to easily navigate Iceland's challenging terrain, providing a smooth ride for the rider. Horse riding tours are suitable for all levels, from beginners to those more experienced.

Alternatively, you could book the once-in-a-lifetime Into the Volcano tour, which you can only do in Iceland. You'll board a mining lift in a far-flung lava field and be lowered into the magma chamber of an extinct volcano.

Considering the unbelievable scale, coloration, and beauty of this space, as well as the uniqueness of this experience, this is undoubtedly the best way to finish such an epic vacation in Iceland.

On your last night in Iceland, you'll stay in comfortable accommodation in Reykjavik.

Day 19 – Reykjavík

• Reykjavík - Departure day
• Kleifarvatn

Day 19 marks the end of your epic self-drive vacation in Iceland. 

If you have an early flight time, leave after enjoying breakfast at your accommodation. Leave plenty of time to return your rental vehicle and drop off your baggage before heading to the departure gate to catch your flight home. 

Those leaving later, however, can create a few last memories of Iceland.

Sightseeing around the capital or the Reykjanes Peninsula are great options for those eager to soak up a little more culture or nature. 

This geologically active region is home to breathtaking landscapes shaped by volcanic activity and powerful forces of nature. 

The Reykjanes peninsula also boasts dramatic cliffs, rugged coastlines, and expansive lava fields like Krysuvik. 

Considering you'll still have your rental car, you could visit other attractions around Reykjavik, such as Mount Esjan, the Blue Mountains, or the Reykjadalur Hot Spring Valley.

Translating to "Steam Valley," Reykjadalur offers a unique and enchanting experience. A picturesque hiking trail winds through a scenic landscape of bubbling hot springs, steaming vents, and colorful geothermal pools. 

As visitors trek along the trail, they can witness the power and beauty of nature up close. At the trail's end, a warm river awaits, inviting travelers to indulge in a natural hot bath surrounded by breathtaking valley views. 

Alternatively, you can organize your Blue Lagoon geothermal spa visit on this day. Taking a dip in its healing azure waters is a perfect way to rejuvenate and end a week of adventure.

Once you've finished the day's activities, return your rental car to the airport before heading home.

What to bring

Good to know.

Self-drive tours begin either in Reykjavík City or at Keflavik International Airport. A valid driver's license is required, along with a one-year-long on-road experience. Please be aware that your itinerary may be rearranged to better fit with your arrival date and time.

Some optional activities might require you to have a valid driver's license, or you might need to send additional information to your travel planner. Please note that you might need to present medical documents should you choose to go snorkeling, and participants need to be comfortable in the water and be able to swim.

Although it is summertime, the Icelandic weather can be very unpredictable. Please bring appropriate clothing.

Please note that the Westfjords area does not offer quality-level accommodation. Visitors will thus be placed in the best comfort level accommodation possible in the area during their stay in the Westfjords.

Gravel protection is not included if you choose a Toyota Aygo or similar.

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Iceland Bíldshöfði 20 110 Reykjavík +354 578 20 80 View Map

Sweden Scotland View Details

• Iceland Ring Road Express

(7 days / 6 nights)

• Travel Style

Experience more in less time

This Iceland Express Self - Drive Tour is the “fast track” around the Ring Road, designed to include as many of Iceland’s top sights as one week allows, including hot springs, glaciers, waterfalls, volcanic black sand beaches and more. It’s one of our 7 day itineraries that covers the most ground, so it includes longer daily driving distances than our other full-circle tours. But with the extra daylight hours of summer, you still have lots of time to enjoy sightseeing from early morning to late at night.

7 days / 6 nights

Price p.p. from

The amount will be charged in ISK

Approx 217522 ISK

— why book this tour.

• Private transfer from airport on arrival
• Handpicked hotels by local travel experts with breakfast included
• Reliable rental cars from our trusted partner Hertz
• Comprehensive itinerary, personalised map and travel guide
• 24/7 helpline throughout tour
• Local travel experts with firsthand experience
• Carbon offsetting included

— Cancellation Protection

• Rebook your tour on one occasion, or
• Cancel for any reason and receive a partial refund and travel credit

Terms and conditions apply

Tour Highlights

• See the massive floating icebergs at the Glacier Lagoon
• Walk the Diamond Beach , seeing the scattered, glistening ice
• Explore the famous Golden Circle route
• Discover the volcanic Lake Mývatn and its beautiful surroundings
• Enjoy the cascading waterfalls of Seljalandsfoss & Skógafoss
• Traverse the beautiful Vatnajökull National Park
• Enjoy the waterfalls and hot springs of west Iceland
• Walk the quaint streets of the capital city, Reykjavík
• Photograph jagged basalt columns & sweeping black sand beaches
• Walk the quaint streets of Akureyri , the unofficial capital of north Iceland

Travel style

Active i , best seller i , midnight sun i, driving distance, 1485/923 km/mi, attractions.

Just a few of the majestic sights you’ll take in during your trip.

Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon

Diamond beach, seljalandsfoss, reynisfjara & reynisdrangar, dimmuborgir, lake mývatn, skagafjörður.

A day-by-day plan to guide your journey.

Day 1: Arrival in Reykjavík

On arrival to Keflavík Airport, you will be greeted by a driver who will take you to your accommodation in Reykjavík . After settling in, the rest of the day is free for you to explore the vibrant city centre with its abundance of museums, restaurants and bars to suit all tastes. If you're interested in checking out Icelandic design or experiencing the city's thriving coffee culture, head to the main street, Laugavegur, and enjoy its various shops and cosy cafes.

Spend the night in central Reykjavik.

Day 2: The Golden Circle

Collect your rental car in the morning and begin your journey on the classic “Golden Circle” route, home to some of Iceland’s most popular attractions, including Þingvellir National Park, the hot springs of the Haukadalur geothermal area, the majestic Gullfoss waterfall and the old implosion crater of Kerið . Then continue your drive along the south coast and visit the graceful Seljalandsfoss waterfall—where you can walk behind the cascade—and the equally impressive Skógafoss waterfall.

Spend the night in the Vík area.  

Driving distance approx. 320 km / 199 mi.

Day 3: Glaciers and icebergs

Visit the black volcanic beach near Vík  and the rock formations of Dyrhólaey and Reynisdrangar before heading to Skaftafell , part of the immense Vatnajökull National Park and a place of great natural beauty. Then, on your way towards Höfn , take a break at the amazing Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon , where you can join a boat ride among the maze of floating icebergs (optional).

Spend the night in the Höfn area. 

Driving distance approx. 270 km / 168 mi. 

Day 4: East Fjords & Lake Mývatn

Your drive along East Iceland today is characterised by spectacular fjords, tranquil fishing villages and sweeping landscapes. On arrival to the otherworldly Lake Mývatn , you have an abundance of unusual natural wonders to explore, including the Krafla volcano, the curiously-coloured Námaskarð pass, the fascinating lava formations at maze of Dimmuborgir and the lunar-like pseudo-craters at Skútustaðir.

Spend the night in the Lake Mývatn area.

Driving distance approx. 420 km / 261 mi.

Day 5: The Capital of the North

Spend the first half of the day exploring more of the sights around Lake Mývatn before driving towards Skagafjörður . On the way, you can stop to enjoy the beautiful Goðafoss waterfall, the charming town of Akureyri —nicknamed “The Capital of North Iceland”—and the Glaumbær turf farm museum.

Spend the night in the Skagafjörður area.

Driving distance approx. 200 km / 124 mi.

Day 6: History and Hot Springs

Head back to Reykjavik today. Notable sights along the way include the Grábrók volcanic crater, the Icelandic Settlement Centre in Borgarnes, Deildartunguhver —the largest hot spring in Europe—and the beautiful Hraunfossar waterfalls and Barnafoss waterfalls. History or Nordic literature buffs may also find it worthwhile to stop at the medieval research institution of Snorrastofa at Reykholt , where Snorri Sturluson wrote the Saga Heimskringla in the 13th century.

Spend the night in central Reykjavík.

On return to Reykjavík, return the rental car before settling in at your accommodation. Driving distance approx. 275 km / 171 mi. 

Day 7: Departure

Transfer by shuttle to Keflavík Airport in time for your departure flight. If your flight is in the afternoon, you can fit in a relaxing visit to the Blue Lagoon geothermal spa or even take a short guided tour of the volcanic Reykjanes Peninsula (optional; not included).

Optional extras

Customise your adventure with these Optional Extras.

We recommend adding your extra activities to the tour now for the best booking experience and to secure your spot, as activities are likely to sell out.

Sky Lagoon Pure Pass with Transfer

Whale watching from reykjavík, puffin watching from reykjavík, reykjavík city walk - small groups, helicopter sightseeing - reykjavík summit, the tasty reykjavík food walk, atv bike evening tour - midnight sun safari, atv bike tour - mountain safari - 1 hour, hvammsvík with transfer, helicopter sightseeing - geothermal tour, inside the volcano, blue lagoon entrance & private transport on arrival, wonders of iceland & áróra planetarium show, the lava tunnel - from reykjavík, flyover iceland, horse riding from reykjavík, jökulsárlón amphibian boat tour, zodiac boat tour on jökulsárlón glacier lagoon, zodiac boat tour on fjallsárlón glacier lagoon, mývatn nature baths - entrance fee, hvammsvík hot springs, blue lagoon entrance & private transport on departure, blue lagoon on departure & car drop off at airport, upgrade: private airport transfer - departure, drop rental car off at airport.

Here’s a map of your travel route, to help put things in perspective.

What's included

Don’t worry, we’ve got this covered.

• One private transfer from Keflavík Airport to Reykjavík
• Accommodation (Economy/Comfort Plus/Superior) for 6 nights
• Daily Breakfast
• Rental car of your choice with unlimited mileage, CDW and VAT for 5 days
• Free unlimited in-car Wi-Fi & 2 authorised drivers for the duration of the vehicle rental period
• One semi-private transfer from Reykjavík to Keflavík Airport on departure
• Information meeting with your travel consultant (optional)
• Carbon offsetting the package
• One Map of Iceland and detailed personal itinerary
• Nordic Visitor's Iceland Travel Guide
• Driving in Iceland Pamphlet
• 24/7 helpline
• Taxes & service fees

Not included

• Flights to/from Iceland
• Personal travel insurance
• Gasoline/Petrol
• Driving-Related Fees
• Meals & drinks (unless otherwise stated)
• Any services not listed above as “Included”

Optional Extras

• Cancellation Protection

Essential information

Everything you need to know about this tour before you book

We recommend that you read carefully through the following information before booking this summer self-drive tour in Iceland. We’ve answered the most frequently asked questions here so you know what to expect. You’ll also find more practical advice and attraction recommendations in our online Iceland Travel Guide .

On a self-drive tour, Nordic Visitor supplies you with a quality rental car and a detailed personal itinerary. You act as your own tour guide and driver, and you get to pick the road trip music!

All your services will be pre-booked by your personal travel consultant at Nordic Visitor. This includes your rental car and accommodation in Iceland, along with airport transfers and planned activities, as specified in the itinerary.

And rest assured that we’re with you every step of the way. Upon your arrival, you’ll receive personalised information, including an itinerary, map, leaflets about driving in Iceland, and our very own Iceland Travel Guide. You’ll also have in-car Wi-Fi included in your car rental, meaning you’ll be able to stay connected and check things on the go.

Plus, you’ll have access to our 24/7 helpline during your trip should you need to contact us.

Yes, when you book your Iceland tour with Nordic Visitor, you always get airport transfers to and from Keflavík Airport included. This will be a private, shared or bus transfer, depending on your itinerary. Please check the details of your tour to confirm.

If you add extra nights to your stay before or after the scheduled trip, we’ll rearrange your transfers to fit your new itinerary.

Don’t hesitate to get in touch with your travel consultant if you have any specific requests about optional activities or services.

During your self-drive tour, you’ll stay in accommodation hand-picked by our local Iceland travel experts. We’ve partnered with local businesses and selected hotels and guesthouses based on excellent ratings, comfort and our personal experience.

On our self-drive packages, you can choose from single, double and triple rooms. Please note that in Iceland room types are based on European standard sizes, which means they are smaller than in North America.

For example, a double bed often consists of 2 single beds pushed together. Twin rooms are 2 separate single beds. Triple rooms include a double bed along with an extra bed, rollaway or sofa bed. And single rooms are often smaller than the standard double.

If you have anything specific in mind, please  contact us  to discuss customising your accommodation options.

By booking with Nordic Visitor, you’ll have peace of mind knowing that there’s always someone there for you throughout your trip.

For support and advice during the day, you can call our office. And if anything unexpected happens outside working hours, you can reach us on our 24/7 helpline. 

During your tour, there will always be a Reykjavík-based travel expert on call to handle any unforeseen situations, such as unusual weather or events.

If you’re arriving from Canada, the United States, the United Kingdom, Australia or New Zealand, you won’t need a visa to visit Iceland. 

Visiting from another country? You can find the complete list of countries whose nationals require a visa to enter Iceland on the website of Iceland’s  Directorate of Immigration . If you do require a visa, they maintain a list of local embassies that can assist you with the process. 

Your passport must also be valid for at least 3 months from your departure from Iceland. It’s good to check your passport expiry date early in case you need to renew it. 

Read more about visas, airports and airlines in the  getting to Iceland  section of our travel guide.

Travelling with your kids? No problem! You'll be able to enter your children's ages during the booking process. This lets us know whether to arrange either a baby cot or roll-away bed for your trip.

If you'd like us to arrange for a car seat to be provided for your trip, please let us know ahead of time. It's also possible to book this directly with the car rental agency. This will incur a small, extra cost.

Only you can pick the best time to visit Iceland for your trip. It’ll depend on how much time you have to explore, what you want to see in Iceland and any events you might like to attend.

In summer, June to August , you’ll have milder temperatures and longer daylight hours, compared to the winter. This is ideal for outdoor excursions and sightseeing. 

If you’d like to experience the top attractions with fewer visitors around then you could book your summer trip in May or September . These shoulder season months have more tour and attraction availability.

The winter months are also popular, but generally quieter, apart from the Christmas holiday season. This is the ideal time to try to spot the northern lights.

Find out what  annual Icelandic events and festivals  are on in our travel guide. Or read more about the  best time to visit Iceland  on our blog.

Driving in Iceland during the summer months might be slightly different than what you’re used to. For this reason, you’ll want to make yourself aware of local driving laws and potential road hazards, such as:

• We drive on the right-hand side of the road
• Sheep sometimes roam onto the roads
• Most roads and motorways are single carriageways
• The first car to arrive at a single-lane bridge has right of way
• Iceland has quite a few tunnels, including one of the longest underwater road tunnels in the world  

And finally, with all the beautiful scenery, you’ll want to take it slow and enjoy the drive!

For more information, we strongly recommend taking a few minutes to read through our guide to  driving in Iceland . Additionally, when you arrive on your tour, you’ll receive a brochure telling you more about driving in Iceland.

Because of its northerly location close to the Arctic Circle, Iceland enjoys long days throughout the summer. 

Around the summer solstice, from early June until mid-July, you’ll experience almost 24 hours of daylight. This phenomenon, known as the midnight sun, occurs within the Arctic Circle and is when the sun doesn’t fully set below the horizon. 

These long daylight hours give you plenty of time to drive around and explore. That said, you may want to pack a sleeping mask if you are a light sleeper or tend to wake up at dawn. 

Find out what the daylight hours will be during the month of your visit in this guide to  time and daylight in Iceland .

Summer in Iceland is mild and boasts the best weather and longest days of the year. You can expect temperatures of around 10–15°C (50–59°F), with potential lows of 5°C (41°F) and highs of 25°C (77°F). 

It’s good to know that weather conditions are changeable in Iceland, so you should come ready for sun, rain and wind. For more information on the local climate, read the page  Iceland weather conditions . 

Please note that sightseeing is dependent on weather and road conditions. This means that your itinerary might need to be altered if these conditions are not favourable during your visit.

On your Iceland road trip, you should budget for petrol costs of around 300-400 ISK per litre.

As for meals, your breakfast is included at all your accommodation in Iceland. For the rest of your meals, your spending money will depend on the standard of restaurants you decide to go to. 

Budget between 2,000–3,000 ISK for lunch per person, each day. Dinners at casual restaurants might cost between 3,000–6,000 ISK. Meanwhile at upscale restaurants, you can expect to pay 7,000 ISK or more. This does not include the cost of alcoholic beverages.

Even in summertime Iceland’s climate can feel cool. As you’ll probably spend a lot of time outdoors, you should be ready for a variety of weather conditions.

Here is a recommended summer packing list for your trip to Iceland:

• Durable insulated jacket
• Rain gear, including sturdy wind and waterproof layers, like a jacket and trousers
• Robust walking shoes with a good grip
• Mid-layers such as a fleece or woollen jumper
• A few pairs of warm hiking socks
• Hat, gloves and scarf
• Swimwear for visiting geothermal pools or spas
• Backpack for daily adventures
• Electronic equipment such as smartphone, external powerpack, and travel adapters
• Reusable water bottle
• Sunglasses, sunscreen and eye mask for the summer sun
• And don’t forget your camera!  

For more information, check out this Iceland packing guide .

Yes, you can customise this tour online. During the booking process, you can add extra nights to your itinerary as well as optional day trips, excursions and upgrades. 

If you have something specific in mind, get in touch with your travel consultant and they’ll create your dream trip.

It’s best to book as soon as you can to secure your preferred travel dates. Once you have picked your tour, check the availability calendar to see which months are open for booking. Then, select the date you want and complete your booking. 

Nordic Visitor offers 10–20% deposits so you can reserve your trip as early as it’s convenient for you. The remaining balance is due 30 days before you travel. 

Many tours are also open for the following year if you like to plan well ahead. And if you have any questions or need advice, you can always contact us . 

After booking your tour package online, you will be contacted within 2 business days by your own dedicated travel consultant. They will be your point of contact for all your travel needs before, during and even after your trip. 

At that time, they’ll confirm the availability of your tour. Then the booking process starts, which may take a few weeks. Once this is done, your travel consultant will provide you with all the details of your trip. You will also receive more information about what to expect during your trip.

No need! Nordic Visitor is already working on offsetting the estimated carbon footprint of your package. We’ve partnered with an environmental fund in Iceland to carbon offset all our tours.

Carbon offsetting your international flights is not included, but we highly recommend you look into possibilities with your airline or directly through a local environment fund. 

You can get in touch with our Iceland travel experts ahead of your trip if you have any questions. The live chat option is useful for getting a quick reply as someone answers live every day during office opening hours.

Once you’ve booked, we’ll provide you with a travel guide packed full of local tips and top attractions for your visit. You can also check out our online Iceland Travel Guide where we’ve compiled useful information about topics, including:

• Which credit cards are widely accepted in Iceland
• What kind of electric adapters or converters you’ll need
• Which languages do Icelanders speak (yes, English is one of them!)
• How to get a refund on tax-free shopping
• As well as tipping, buying souvenirs, and other useful information

After you have booked your tour, it will only take a few days to confirm its availability. But it may take a few weeks to create your itinerary and book everything. Once your trip details are finalised, we’ll email you copies of your travel documents.

When you arrive in Iceland, you’ll receive a welcome bag with hard copies of your itinerary, attraction and tour vouchers, the Nordic Visitor Iceland Travel Guide and more.

When you depart may depend on the time of your return flight. Check out early if you’re heading to the airport for a morning flight. On the other hand, if you’re flying home later in the day, you might like to enjoy a leisurely day or visit one more attraction.

You will need to check out from your room, but will be able to store your luggage at the hotel reception. Simply return later to collect your bags before catching your transfer to the airport.

All bookings are billed in Icelandic Króna (ISK), the official currency of Iceland. 

Prices displayed in other currencies are indicative only and based on the daily exchange rate as issued by the Central Bank of Iceland. This means conversions from ISK to other currencies will fluctuate from day to day.

These should tide you over until you’re in Iceland to take your own pictures.

Skógafoss Waterfall in South Iceland

Goðafoss Waterfall in North Iceland

Reynisfjara beach view to Dyrhólaey South Iceland

Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon in South Iceland

Silfra in South Iceland

Gullfoss Waterfall in South Iceland

+7 more from this tour

Þingvellir National Park in South Iceland

Geysir in South Iceland

Driving in East Iceland

Víðimýri Church in North Iceland

Dimmuborgir in North Iceland

Akureyri in North Iceland

Dyrhólaey in South Iceland

We don’t like to brag, so we’ll let our happy customers do it for us.

Nordic Visitor is the best in the business

As first time overseas travellers, we were a bit nervous about booking online through an agency. It quickly became apparent that Nordic Visitor is the best in the business.

Scott, United States

Iceland ring road express, september 2023, best travel experience of my life.

Nordic Visitor and its staff removed any anxiety I had about doing a self-guided tour in a country where I did not speak the language. They provided all the necessary maps and guides to make driving the entire country easy. It was the best travel experience of my life, and I travel quite a bit.

Steven, United States

The highlight of our europe trip.

We had the best time on our Iceland Ring Road express tour with Nordic Visitor! Even from the planning stages, our travel agent Viðja was super helpful with all our questions and even arranged for us to customise the tour slightly to include a day in the Snæfellsness peninsula. The tour was planned perfectly, which took all the stress out of everything. It was lovely to be picked up from the airport and knowing that all our accommodation and breakfasts were all sorted, and being dropped back off at Keflavík at the end. Iceland itself was absolutely surreal and definitely the highlight of our Europe trip.

Johanna, Australia

It was great.

Nordic Visitor set up a great itinerary for our trip! They also included the map for our tour with handwritten comments and suggestions. It was great!

Julia, United States

Exceptional service.

I originally booked my trip in 2020 and it was cancelled due to COVID. But every person with Nordic visitor went above and beyond to protect my investment and when then time came helped rebook my trip. It was exceptional service.

Tara, United States

Nordic visitor made everything simple.

We really had a great time from the moment we landed to the time we left. Nordic Visitor made everything simple. No issues with pickup or drop off times, transportation, or hotel/event check-ins. I've already recommended Nordic Visitor to friends and we hope to book another within the next year! Thank you so much for making our first international trip so easy!

Steve, United States

Accommodation.

Stay in well-located hotels and guesthouses that are highly rated by visitors and handpicked by local travel experts.

Look forward to getting a good night’s sleep after each day of driving in Iceland. All your accommodation will be conveniently located near your driving route, with ample parking. Rest assured that you’ll stay in the best possible properties, which have all received excellent reviews from previous customers.

You can expect rooms in good quality guesthouses, farmhouses, or hostels. Most of the properties are run by small, family-run busi..

Comfort Plus

In this category, you’ll stay in standard rooms in good quality and comfortable 3-star hotels, guesthouses or charming country hot..

With Superior accommodation, you’ll enjoy standard rooms in 4-star hotels or boutique guesthouses. You might also stay in superior..

Enjoy the journey in the rental car of your choice, with two authorised drivers and free in-car Wi-Fi.

Toyota Yaris (Manual) or similar

• Description: Economy
• Passengers: 5
• Transmission: Manual*
• *upgrade to automatic available upon request

Volkswagen Golf (Automatic) or similar

• Description: Compact
• Transmission: Automatic

Toyota Corolla Sedan (Automatic) or similar

• Description: Intermediate

Toyota Corolla Station (Automatic) or similar

• Description: Intermediate Wagon

Hyundai Tucson AWD (Automatic) or similar

• Description: Intermediate SUV

Toyota RAV4 4x4 (Automatic) or similar

• Description: Standard SUV, AWD
• Suitcases: 4

Toyota Land Cruiser 4x4 (Automatic) or similar

• Description: Premium SUV, 4WD
• Suitcases: 5

Land Rover Discovery 4x4 (Automatic) or similar limited availability

• Description: 4x4

Ford Transit (Automatic) or similar

• Description: Passenger Van
• Passengers: 8
• Luggage: 6-7

Price per person from

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Private Iceland Tour

Luxury vehicles.

From 4x4s to luxury saloons, our team will have the perfect vehicle for your trip

Expert Guides

Our knowledgable guides can't wait to share their passion for Iceland with you and your group

Custom Itineraries

Unlimited & completely flexible itineraries built by our wonderful planners for you and yours!

Your Private Guide to the Land of Fire & Ice

Experience the very best of Iceland with our exclusive private guided tours and driver-guided excursions throughout the mesmerizing landscapes of this extraordinary island nation.

From the ethereal dance of the Northern Lights to the soothing waters of the world-famous Blue Lagoon, our private tours are designed to deliver the best of Iceland’s natural wonders and Viking heritage to you.

At Private Iceland Tour, we are dedicated to providing you with personalized and immersive experiences led by our knowledgeable, experienced, and officially licensed local guides. Contact our team of tour planners today for your complimentary bespoke Iceland itinerary , tailored precisely to your desires, ensuring an unforgettable journey through this magical land.

Multi-Day Iceland Tour Itinerary Ideas

Perhaps the hardest part of planning your Iceland vacation is understanding how many majestic volcanoes, sprawling glaciers, and breathtaking waterfalls you can fit into your planned dates.

Whether you’re planning a 5-day excursion to experience Iceland’s awe-inspiring natural marvels, a 10 to 14-day driver-guided journey traversing the country’s diverse landscapes, or even our comprehensive 21-day Ultimate Iceland Tour, our expertly crafted itineraries ensure that you maximize every moment spent in this extraordinary land.

For a fully customized, complimentary itinerary tailored to your unique interests and preferences, reach out to our dedicated team today.

16-Day Guided Tour of Iceland Itinerary

7-Day South Coast & Northern Lights Tour of Iceland

The Ultimate 21 Day Iceland Guided Tour Itinerary

14-Day Private Guided Tour of Iceland

Private 7-Day Iceland Tour Itinerary

Ten-Day Iceland Ring Road Itinerary

12 Day Driver-Guided Tour of Iceland

South Coast of Iceland 5-Day Itinerary

Popular private iceland day tours.

Discover the extraordinary beauty and captivating culture of Iceland with our popular private day tours.

Our day tours enable you to explore the vibrant city of Reykjavik, witness the majestic Gullfoss waterfall, the powerful geysers of Geysir, the breathtaking beauty of Thingvellir National Park, and much more besides.

View our day tours below to find out the best way to view the dazzling Northern Lights and other mesmerizing natural wonders spread across Iceland.

Reykjavik in a Day Private Tour

Full Day South Coast and Vik Beaches Tour

Full-Day Driver-Guided Iceland Golden Circle Tour

Reykjanes Peninsula Tour With Meradalir Volcano Hike

Blue Lagoon & Northern Lights Experience

Iceland Ice Cave Walk & Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon Boat Tour

Fully Tailored Custom Tours of Iceland

Experience the very best of what Iceland has to offer on a complimentary, bespoke custom itinerary designed by our team of tour planning specialists.

We will ensure that you spend the perfect amount of time with your private guide, uncovering the majestic volcanoes, sprawling glaciers, and breathtaking waterfalls that have earned Iceland the moniker “The Land of Fire and Ice.” Our local expertise will enable you to delve into cultural events, off-the-beaten-path experiences, and hidden gems that you might otherwise miss.

Additionally, we will arrange luxury air-conditioned vehicles for transfers and driver-guided excursions, as well as offer suggestions for comfortable accommodations.

The Premier Choice for Private Tours of Iceland

At Private Iceland Tour, our mission is to elevate your vacation beyond what other providers can offer, ensuring that you return home with cherished memories of your guided tour that will last a lifetime.

When you choose us for your private tour or personal driver-guided tour, you will benefit from the following:

Explore in Comfort

Our chauffeur-driven vehicles are luxurious models equipped with air conditioning and comfortable seats. All our tours are private, and our executive vehicles are sanitized daily for your peace of mind as you experience the enchanting beauty of Iceland.

Expert Private Guides

Our friendly and knowledgeable drivers and guides will ensure that the unique landscapes, culture, and history of Iceland are brought to life in a fun, memorable, and engaging way for you and your private group.

Fully Customizable Tours

We can pick you up from any location and work around your schedule to visit all the sites and destinations you desire, avoiding the time-wasting often associated with bus or group tours.

Contact Your Private Tour Guide to Iceland

If you are interested in learning more about our exceptional guided tours of Iceland, simply send our team an online inquiry below.

Additionally, if you’d like us to create a complimentary custom tour itinerary for you, fill out the form below and let us know which regions and activities pique your interest. Your personal tour planner will then begin crafting the perfect Icelandic adventure tailored just for you.

Meet Sandra! An Icelandic local with years of itinerary planning experience, Sandra is the perfect person to plan your dream trip to Iceland. Get in touch with her today for your free itinerary!

Let us know your questions!

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Embark on an Unforgettable Iceland Self-Drive Tour: The Comprehensive Guide

Iceland, a country of awe-inspiring natural beauty, is home to glaciers, geysers, waterfalls, hot springs, black sand beaches, unique wildlife, and a rich culture. An Iceland self-drive tour offers the best way to experience this Nordic paradise.

This guide will cover everything you need to know to plan the ultimate Iceland road trip.

Page Contents

Planning Your Iceland Self-Drive Tour

Before setting off on your road trip, it’s crucial to plan your itinerary. With so much to see in Iceland, you’ll need to determine what to prioritize. Consider the following factors when planning your adventure:

Determining the Duration of Your Trip

Iceland offers an abundance of sights, so decide how much time you can allocate for your journey. A week provides enough time to see the major attractions, but with more time, you can discover even more hidden gems throughout the country.

Selecting the Best Time of Year to Visit

Given Iceland’s unpredictable weather, planning your trip based on the season is essential. Summer is ideal for witnessing the Midnight Sun and experiencing Iceland’s lush green landscapes. In contrast, winter provides the perfect opportunity to view the Northern Lights and enjoy Iceland’s snowy terrain.

Tailoring Your Itinerary to Your Interests

Iceland boasts a wide range of attractions, so you’ll want to design your itinerary around your interests. Nature enthusiasts and adventure-seekers should focus on national parks and nature reserves, while history and culture buffs may prefer spending more time in the towns and villages.

Once you’ve established your itinerary, it’s time to delve into the finer details of your journey.

Renting a Car for Your Iceland Road Trip

Renting a car is the most convenient way to explore Icelan With well-maintained roads and easy navigation, a car allows you the freedom to travel where and when you desire. Keep the following considerations in mind when renting a car:

Choosing a Car Suitable for Icelandic Driving Conditions

Icelandic roads can be challenging, particularly in winter. Ensure you rent a car that can handle the varying conditions you may encounter during your trip.

Securing the Appropriate Insurance

Obtaining the right insurance for your journey is crucial. While some rental companies include insurance in their prices, others do not, so verify your coverage before hitting the road.

Budgeting for Fuel Expenses

Fuel prices in Iceland can be steep, so plan your budget accordingly to avoid any unexpected costs.

Must-See Destinations on Your Iceland Self-Drive Tour

Iceland offers an abundance of attractions, and these must-see destinations should be on your road trip itinerary:

As Iceland’s capital and largest city, Reykjavik serves as the perfect starting point for your road trip. Explore the city’s museums ( Perlan ) , art galleries, hot springs, and charming streets to get a taste of Icelandic urban life.

The Golden Circle

The Golden Circle, a popular tourist route, encompasses some of Iceland’s most iconic sights, including Thingvellir National Park, Gullfoss waterfall, and the geysers at Geysir.

Jökulsárlón

Jökulsárlón, a glacial lagoon filled with floating ice chunks, offers an excellent opportunity for a boat tour to admire the glaciers up close.

Vatnajökull National Park

As Iceland’s largest national park and home to the Vatnajökull glacier , Vatnajökull National Park provides fantastic hiking opportunities and the chance to witness ice caps and glaciers.

Skaftafell National Park

Located in southern Iceland, Skaftafell National Park is renowned for its picturesque hiking trails and waterfalls, including the striking Svartifoss waterfall.

The Blue Lagoon

The Blue Lagoon , a geothermal spa situated in southwestern Iceland, is the perfect place to unwind and soak in the warm waters after a long day of driving.

Accommodation Options for Your Iceland Self-Drive Tour

Accommodation options for your Iceland self-drive tour are diverse and cater to various preferences and budgets. Here are some popular choices to consider during your trip.

Camping is a popular choice in Iceland, with numerous campsites scattered throughout the country, allowing you to immerse yourself in nature.

Guesthouses

Guesthouses provide a more traditional Icelandic experience, offering comfortable, affordable lodgings. Many guesthouses are family-run, adding to their charm and authenticity.

From budget-friendly to luxurious, Iceland has a wide variety of hotels to cater to your preferences, ensuring you have access to all the comforts and amenities you desire.

Tips for a Successful Iceland Self-Drive Tour

To make the most of your Iceland self-drive tour, follow these helpful tips.

Dress Appropriately

Iceland’s weather can be unpredictable, so pack warm clothing. Even in summer, temperatures can drop, and winds can pick up, so make sure to bring layers.

Carry a Map

Although Iceland’s roads are well-maintained, it’s always a good idea to have a map handy in case of unexpected detours or navigation challenges.

Stay Updated on Weather Conditions

Icelandic weather can change rapidly, so regularly check the forecast before heading out on your road trip to ensure you’re prepared for any sudden shifts.

Respect the Environment

Iceland’s natural beauty is one of its main attractions. Help preserve this stunning landscape by respecting the environment and adhering to the principles of Leave No Trace .

Drive Safely

Navigating Iceland’s roads can be challenging at times, so always drive safely and obey all traffic laws to ensure a smooth and enjoyable journey.

With careful planning, your Iceland self-drive tour will be an unforgettable adventure. The country’s breathtaking natural beauty and unique culture make it a destination not to be misse So pack your bags, rent a car, and embark on the road trip of a lifetime.

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Hey there! I'm Elliot Clennam, a passionate photographer based in Brussels, Belgium. My love for capturing the essence of my surroundings has led me on countless adventures, from exciting road trips to bustling city escapes.

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Experience the Land of Fire and Ice on This 7 Day Iceland Itinerary

The writer was hosted.

Get ready for an exciting adventure through the land of fire and ice with a carefully crafted 7-day Iceland itinerary along the famous Ring Road. From the dramatic landscapes of the Golden Circle to the enchanting waterfalls of the South Coast, this itinerary offers a blend of natural wonders and cultural experiences. Prepare to immerse yourself in the surreal beauty of Iceland as you explore volcanic lava fields, soak in the Blue Lagoon and witness the mesmerizing dance of the Northern Lights in the night sky.

Day 1: You’ve Arrived in Iceland!

After landing at Keflavik Airport, grabbing your bags and picking up your rental car, you’re ready to start your Iceland adventure. But, of course, you’ve likely just spent the night on the airplane and a bit of refreshing is required. Fortunately, Iceland’s famed hot springs, The Blue Lagoon, is just a 22 minute drive away. Make your reservations before you arrive and head straight to The Blue Lagoon for a dip in this geothermal hot spring because no trip to Iceland is complete without this experience.

Once refreshed, a driving time of 40 minutes brings you to Reykjavik, Iceland’s capital city. If a self drive road trip isn’t part of your itinerary, bus service is available from Keflavik Airport to the Blue Lagoon and on to Reykjavik.

A guided tour by locals is an excellent way to spend your first day in Reykjavik as an introduction to the capital city and Iceland in general. We chose the free tours by locals , a company with knowledgeable and entertaining local guides that lead walking tours of  downtown Reykjavik. The “tip what you think the tour was worth” concept is unique and the tour focuses on highlights like the stunning Hallgrímskirkja church, historic buildings and the city’s colorful neighborhoods. The guided tours introduce visitors to the stories of one of Europe’s most unique countries.

Whale watching tours provide another interesting experience in Reykjavik. Departing from Reykjavik Harbor, the tours not only search for whales but also keep an eye out for puffins and other migratory birds that visit Iceland seasonally.

Day 2: Drive the Golden Circle

Depart Reykjavik on Day Two of your self drive road trip to experience the natural wonders of the Golden Circle. The first stop, Thingvellir National Park harbors history and the marvels of nature within its boundaries. The park sits in a rift valley where the tectonic plates of North America and Europe meet.

Another must-see along the Golden Circle, the geyser geothermal area houses several geysers including Strokkur – Iceland’s most visited active geyser. Walk alongside the geysers and feel the steam as it erupts. Or stretch your legs on the hiking trail for a view overlooking the geothermal area.

Another must-see, Gullfoss Waterfall  – which translates as Golden Falls – is one of Iceland’s most beloved waterfalls. Gullfoss is fed by the waters of Hvítá River that travel from the glacier Langjökull, before cascading 105 feet down the Gullfoss Waterfall’s two dramatic stages.

Continue Along the Ring Road

Next up on the Golden Circle, a stop at South Iceland’s Kerid Crater  seems almost otherworldly. This volcanic lake with deep blue-green water surrounded by red rock and lush mossy vegetation formed over 6500 years ago after an eruption. Allow yourself enough time to explore the hiking trails the circle the rim of Kerid Crater. Or venture down the hiking trails to the waters of the Kerid Crater for another perspective.

Continue east along the Ring Road on a two-hour drive to Vik. Of course those two hours may become three with all the sightseeing possibilities along the south coast of Iceland. Highlights include the Seljalandsfoss and Skogafoss waterfalls, Reynisfjara black sand beach and the Fjadrargljufur Canyon.

Overnight near Skaftafell nature reserve and get ready for the next day’s big adventures.

Day 3: Experience Black Sand Beaches and an Ice Cave Tour

Day Three unveils a full day of adventure. Start with a walk along one of Iceland’s most striking black sand beaches. Framed by dramatic basalt columns, Reynisfjara Black Sand Beach is a must-see. As you make your way along your Ring Road itinerary to Vik, take the turn off to Dyrhólaey to view the spectacular arch in the sea. During nesting season it’s possible to spot puffins and other bird life here. A 19 minute drive east from here leads to the lovely village of Vik.

For an experience off the typical tourist track, book an Ice Cave Tour with Southcoast Adventure . The experience begins with a pick up location in central Vik and a drive through ancient lava fields. You’ll then strap on some crampons for a short glacier hike on the mighty Myrdalsjokull glacier and into the ice cave. Plentiful shops, restaurants and lodging options make Vik an ideal place to overnight before continuing on your Ring Road itinerary.

Day 4: Waterfalls, a Glacier Lagoon and Europe’s Largest Glacier

As you continue east on the Ring Road, a drive time of under two hours brings you to Svartifoss waterfall – another gorgeous must-see waterfall framed by black basalt columns. Continue east to reach the Jokulsarlon glacier lagoon where massive icebergs can be seen floating in the lagoon. For an up close view of the floating icebergs, consider taking a glacier lagoon boat tour. Be sure to allow enough time to see nearby Diamond Beach as you follow the road to the breathtaking east fjords. Overnight in a hotel or guesthouse in Höfn and rest up for the next day. From Höfn you’ll have a clear view of the largest glacier in Europe, Vatnajökull.

Day 5: Driving and Sightseeing on the Ring Road

Today you’ll continue your Ring Road itinerary driving north to Lake Myvatn. Detour onto Iceland Road 864 for an additional drive time of about an hour to capture spectacular photos of the Dettifoss waterfall.

When you reach Lake Myvatn, more geothermal areas await exploration at Hverir and Kfafla. A must-see, Godafoss waterfall, located in the river Skjálfandafljót in north Iceland, falls from a height of 39 feet and has a width spanning 98 feet. Hiking trails provide an ideal way to see more of this region considered part of the Diamond Circle for sightseeing.

Continue traveling on Ring Road another 45 miles to overnight in Akureyri, the largest city outside of the greater Reykjavik area. Akureyri is a renowned cultural center with many galleries and museums. It’s also home to the world’s northernmost botanical gardens.

Day 6: Travel the Iceland Ring Road to Snaefellsnes Peninsula

Driving in Iceland is an adventure in itself and today’s 230-mile drive from Akureyri to the Snaefellsnes Peninsula proves my point. Drive time typically runs about 4 hours and 30 minutes without stops. But the jaw-dropping vistas along the way beckon you to stop and take photos. A couple of not to be missed sights along the way are Hvítserkur and Kolugljúfur Canyon.

Visible from the impressive black sand beach at Húnaflói Bay, Hvítserkur is a distinctive rock formation often referred to as the Troll of Northwest Iceland. The 49 ft tall basalt sea stack features two unusual holes at its base and creates a silhouette often likened to a dragon drinking from the sea.

A short detour off of Ring Road, the breathtaking Kolugljúfur Canyon and Kolufossar waterfalls make an ideal stop to stretch your legs and take in these beautiful wonders of nature. It’s a short walk from the parking lot to the canyon which is accessed by a footbridge.

As you continue to Snaefellsnes Peninsula, you’ll leave the Ring Road behind to take route 54 at Borgarnes. Overnight nearby to rest up for a full day of adventure on the Snaefellsnes Peninsula.

Day 7: Exploring the Snaefellsnes Peninsula

While day tours are available from Reykjavik, Snaefellsnes Peninsula deserves a nearby overnight stay to allow a full day to explore this gorgeous peninsula. Home to Kirkjufell – the country’s most photographed mountain – the landscapes leave you breathless. Just steps from Kirkjufell the Kirkjufellsfoss waterfalls add to the serenity of this place.

A counter-clockwise drive along the Snaefellsnes Peninsula leads you through picturesque fishing villages, miles of lava fields, a volcanic crater and new discoveries at every turn. The peninsula is home to Snaefellsjokull National Park – a park filled with all the geological wonders Iceland offers along with intriguing human history. You’ll find black sand beaches, picturesque churches, soaring cliffs, volcanic craters and miles of lava fields.

When your explorations conclude, an hour’s drive time along Iceland’s west coast leads you back to Reykjavik.

Best Time to Visit Iceland

Deciding when to visit Iceland presents a few choices. If your focus is chasing the Northern Lights, visiting in the aurora season that runs from October until April gives you the best chance. Of course, mid-winter guarantees dark skies for hours, increasing opportunities to view the elusive Northern Lights. But, the downside to a winter visit is limited daylight. So if you want to cover as much of Iceland’s awe-inspiring landscapes in seven days, you may need a season with more light.

Also, for those hoping to self drive on a road trip along the entire Ring Road, winter often means unsafe road conditions due to heavy snow and ice in some areas. For a winter visit, consider guided day trips from areas along the south coast of Iceland.

In summer months, the Northern Lights aren’t visible. But, the midnight sun extends your day giving you more time to explore each destination you visit. If there’s a downside to spending the mild summer months (mosquito free by the way) in Iceland, it’s the crowds. You know that Golden Circle you want to see? Everyone else wants to see it too. That means bumper-to-bumper traffic.

Personally, I prefer the shoulder season. And on our recent visit to Iceland, we arrived in mid-April for a week exploring this magnificent country minus the crowds. It’s early for bird and whale watching, but not impossible to catch a glimpse of some of the early arriving puffins and whales on a boat tour. Lingering Northern Lights are also possible on a clear night in April. Autumn presents another viable option for a crowd-free Iceland road trip.

What to Know Before You Go

Most travelers who visit Iceland arrive at Keflavik Airport. Located 50 kilometers outside the capital city of Reykjavik, Keflavik Airport is a relatively small airport compared to some of our mega-sized airports in the US. It’s also easy to navigate and rental car counters are located inside the airport.

Unless you plan to use a tour company for guided day trips, a rental car is the best way to really explore this magnificent place. Always up for a self drive road trip, we reserved a rental car in advance of our arrival. Small vehicles make the most sense on the narrow-ish roads throughout Iceland, but if you’re venturing outside Reykjavik in search of secret lagoons, lava fields and black sand beaches, it’s best to rent a small SUV with 4-wheel drive. Some roads are unpaved and road conditions are unpredictable so that extra power comes in handy.

Although I don’t typically use the extra insurance offered for rental cars, Iceland’s extreme wind and unpredictable weather warranted the need for rental car insurance just for peace of mind.

Camper vans provide another option for intrepid travelers up for a rugged adventure. Campgrounds throughout Iceland  offer various types of hook-ups and facilities.

Packing for Iceland

Your packing needs for Iceland vary greatly depending on whether you visit in the winter or summer months or the shoulder season I chose. One thing remains the same – you need layers! You also need a waterproof rain jacket. And, of course, pack a swimsuit for soaking in the country’s hot springs. You’ll find more information to aid in planning your packing list here .