Arrival

Reykjavik - Upon arriving in Iceland, pick up your rental car at the airport. Begin your adventure by driving through the surreal lava fields of the Reykjanes Peninsula. This volcanic landscape, adorned with moss-covered rocks and distant mountains, serves as a captivating introduction to Iceland’s natural wonders. Depending on your arrival time, the rest of the day is at your leisure. Spend your first night in Reykjavík, the vibrant capital of Iceland.

Driving: Approx 50 km (31 miles)
Accommodation: Reykjavík.

South Shore

Seljalandsfoss - Driving along Iceland’s south coast offers some of the island’s most breathtaking scenery. Start with a visit to Seljalandsfoss waterfall, where water cascades over a cliff into a serene pool below, allowing visitors to walk behind the falls for a unique view.

Skogafoss - Continue along the coast to Skógafoss, where powerful water plummets from a height, creating a mist that dances in the light.

Reynisfjara Beach - Further along the coast, Dyrhólaey offers a rugged promontory with panoramic views of the ocean and coastline, including the iconic arched rock jutting into the sea. Nearby, Reynisfjara beach amazes visitors with its black sands, towering basalt columns, and the powerful waves of the North Atlantic crashing against the shore.

Vik - Your journey culminates in Vík í Mýrdal, a charming village known for its picturesque church set against dramatic cliffs and the endless ocean.

Vatnajökull National Park

Skaftafell - Departing from the charming village of Vík, known for its dramatic black sand beaches and iconic sea stacks, head towards the enchanting Vatnajökull National Park. As you drive eastward, the road brings you closer to the majestic glaciers spilling from Vatnajökull, Europe’s largest glacier. The Skaftafell area within the park serves as a gateway to glacier hikes and stunning views of Svartifoss waterfall, framed by basalt columns.

Jokulsarlon - The journey’s highlight awaits at Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon and the nearby Diamond Beach, where icebergs from the glacier float in a tranquil lagoon before washing ashore on a black sand beach, sparkling like diamonds under the sunlight.

Hofn - Your adventure culminates in Höfn, a picturesque fishing town with panoramic views of Vatnajökull and a reputation for some of the best lobster in Iceland. This drive from Vík to Höfn offers an intimate experience with the island’s most captivating natural phenomena.

East Fjords

Djupivogur - Setting off from Höfn, drive to Egilsstaðir through the unforgettable East Fjords, a region famed for its dramatic landscapes, quaint villages, and serpentine roads hugging the coastline. This route reveals a less-travelled side of Iceland, where nature’s raw beauty speaks volumes. As you leave Höfn, the scenery transitions to the rugged coastline of the East Fjords, where steep mountains plunge into deep, narrow fjords. Each twist and turn presents a new vista, with the ocean’s vast expanse on one side and towering cliffs on the other. The drive takes you through charming fishing villages and hamlets, each with its own unique character. Djúpivogur is a delightful stop, known for its art installations and birdlife.

Egilsstadir - Egilsstaðir, the largest town in the East, serves as the gateway to the region’s interior, including the mystical Lake Lagarfljót, home to tales of serpentine monsters and hidden forests.

Lake Mývatn

Dettifoss Waterfall - After driving through the vast black desert of northeast Iceland, approach the Lake Mývatn area. Your first stop, Dettifoss, Europe’s most powerful waterfall, is a short detour off the main route but an unmissable spectacle. The thunderous roar of water plunging into the canyon below is a profound reminder of nature’s force.

Námaskarð - Lake Mývatn, a haven for birdlife, sits amidst a volcanic wonderland. The steaming fumaroles and boiling mud pots of the Námaskarð geothermal area display the earth’s inner heat at the surface, painting the ground in vivid colors.

Myvatn Nature Baths (Jardbodin vid Myvatn) - Nearby, a visit to the Mývatn Nature Baths offers a relaxing geothermal spa experience in the heart of Iceland’s stunning landscape. Visitors can soak in mineral-rich, warm waters while enjoying views of the surrounding volcanic terrain. It’s a perfect spot to unwind and enjoy the natural beauty of the area.

Hverfjall - Continuing your journey, the volcanic crater of Hverfjall presents an opportunity for a short hike, offering panoramic views of the surrounding area from its rim.

Dimmuborgir Lava Formations - The Dimmuborgir lava formations offer a maze of towering stacks and caves, creating a mythical atmosphere that legends say is home to elves and trolls.

Godafoss - Leaving the lake behind, head west towards Goðafoss, one of Iceland’s most spectacular waterfalls. Known as the “Waterfall of the Gods,” Goðafoss is deeply entwined with Iceland’s conversion to Christianity in the year 1000.

Akureyri - Upon arrival in Akureyri, take the time to explore the largest town in northern Iceland.

Borgarfjörður

Skagafjordur - Leaving Akureyri, drive west towards the historical valley of Skagafjörður, renowned for its horse breeding and significant role in Icelandic sagas. Taking a detour from the main road, this area offers a chance to delve into the history of Iceland and the medieval turf houses at Glaumbær. Drive over the Holtavörðuheiði highland road to Borgarfjörður.

Reykholt - Upon arriving in Borgarfjörður, your first destination is Reykholt. Once the home of Snorri Sturluson, a medieval historian, poet, and politician, Reykholt offers a deep dive into the saga age. Visit Snorri’s pool, an early geothermal pool, and the museum dedicated to his life and works.

Deildartunguhver Thermal Spring - Continue to Deildartunguhver, Europe’s most powerful hot spring. The sheer volume of boiling water produced here is awe-inspiring.

Hraunfossar Lava Waterfall - A short drive brings you to the unique Hraunfossar and Barnafoss waterfalls. Hraunfossar, known as the ‘Lava Waterfalls,’ is a stunning series of cascades emerging from beneath a lava field, creating a breathtaking view. Nearby, Barnafoss, or ‘Children’s Falls,’ has its own tragic saga that adds a mystical aura to its rushing blue waters.

Borgarnes - End the day in Borgarnes. Borgarnes is a charming town in western Iceland, known for its rich history and beautiful surroundings. Visitors can explore museums, enjoy scenic views of mountains and fjords, and experience Icelandic culture and hospitality. It’s a perfect stop for those traveling through the region.

Golden Circle

Thingvellir National Park - Drive south towards Þingvellir National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Þingvellir is a place of significant historical, cultural, and geological importance, as it was the site of the world’s oldest recorded legislative parliament (Alþingi) and lies on the rift between the North American and Eurasian tectonic plates. Explore the walking trails, Almannagjá fissure, and Öxarárfoss waterfall.

Geysir - Continue your journey to the Geysir geothermal area in Haukadalur valley. Although the Great Geysir is mostly dormant, its neighbor Strokkur erupts every few minutes, shooting boiling water up to 30 meters into the air. The surrounding area is dotted with hot springs, mud pots, and fumaroles.

Gullfoss Waterfall - A short drive from Geysir brings you to Gullfoss, one of Iceland’s most stunning waterfalls. Gullfoss, or ‘Golden Falls,’ cascades down a deep gorge, creating a spectacular display of nature’s power. There are several viewpoints to appreciate the waterfall’s beauty from different angles.

Reykjavik - After exploring the Golden Circle, head back to Reykjavík. Reykjavík, the capital of Iceland, is a vibrant city known for its modern architecture, rich cultural scene, and stunning natural beauty. Visitors can explore historic sites, enjoy world-class dining, and experience the unique blend of urban life and nature. It’s a gateway to Iceland’s many adventures.

Departure

Keflavik - Depart from your lodging in Reykjavík and make your way to Keflavík International Airport. Returning your rental car at Keflavík Airport marks the completion of your Icelandic adventure.

• Accommodation with private facilities and breakfast
• Detailed itinerary for each day in multiple languages
• Emergency telephone service
• Rental car with unlimited mileage, VAT, CDW, SCDW, GP, TP
• Airport car pickup and drop off

• Fuel expense and parking fees
• Flights to and from Iceland
• Personal travel insurance

Experience the ultimate Icelandic adventure with our eight-day self-drive tour, showcasing the best of Iceland’s landscapes and cultural heritage. Travel along the stunning South Coast to explore iconic waterfalls, black sand beaches, Europe’s largest glaciers and the spectacular Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon. Drive through the serene East Fjords and discover the unique geological formations and cultural history of the region.

Explore the volcanic wonders around Lake Mývatn and the powerful Dettifoss waterfall. Experience Icelandic saga history in Borgarfjörður and delve into the epic landscapes of the Golden Circle, including Þingvellir National Park, the eruptive Geysir area, and the majestic Gullfoss waterfall. This self-drive tour offers freedom, adventure, and a deep dive into the natural beauty and history of Iceland.

• Valid Drivers Licence is required
• Comfort Package: 4-star hotels or best hotels in each area
• Standard Package: 3-star hotels or guesthouses

If you cancel at least 3 full day(s) before the scheduled departure time, you will receive a full refund.
If you cancel within 3 day(s) of the scheduled departure, you will receive a 0% refund.