Iceland Ring Road Self-Drive Adventure

Welcome to Iceland! Upon arrival, pick up your vehicle to kick off your adventure. Settle into your accommodation in Reykjavik or Keflavik (depending on your flight arrival time) and take the rest of the day to relax or explore independently. Stroll through Reykjavik’s lively streets, grab a bite at a local café, or relax and prepare for the journey ahead.

Please note that this trip is a highly customizable self-drive trip. Optional tours can be added daily depending on how much independence or structure you would like to have in your itinerary. Optional day tours may require pre-registration to guarantee availability and will be an additional cost. For more details, please discuss with your trip planners.

Optional Tour Additions in Reykjavik could include: A soak at either the Blue Lagoon or the Sky Lagoon to relax after your travels or a whale-watching adventure leaving from Reykjavik. 

Set off toward the Snaefellsnes Peninsula with unforgettable stops along Iceland’s iconic Golden Circle. Witness the raw power of Gullfoss Waterfall, feel the earth tremble at the Geysir geothermal area, and explore the historic beauty of Þingvellir National Park. Most visitors dedicate a full day to exploring the Golden Circle which, with sightseeing stops included, usually takes between 6 and 8 hours to complete the full circuit. Continuing on the way to Snaefellsnes, detour to the steamy Deildartunguhver hot springs and admire the flowing beauty of Barnafoss and Hraunfossar waterfalls. End the day with accommodation on the Snaefellsnes Peninsula, ready for tomorrow’s adventures.

Drive Time to Snaefellsnes via Golden Circle: 4.5 hours
Distance: 315km / 195 miles

Discover the diverse beauty of the Snaefellsnes Peninsula, often called “Little Iceland” for its stunning variety of landscapes. From black sand beaches to dramatic cliffs and lava fields, this region captures the essence of the entire island. Visit the iconic Snæfellsjökull volcano, made legendary by Jules Verne’s Journey to the Center of the Earth. Spend the day exploring this magical region before settling in for another night on the Snaefellsnes Peninsula.


 

Hit the road and head toward Akureyri, known as the “Capital of the North.” Explore this charming city’s vibrant streets, cozy cafés, and scenic harbor views. Visit the iconic Akureyri Church, stroll through the Botanical Gardens, or soak in the relaxed northern vibe. Settle in for the night with accommodation in Akureyri.

Start your day with a visit to the majestic Goðafoss Waterfall, known as the “Waterfall of the Gods.” Continue to the Lake Mývatn area, famous for its volcanic landscapes, geothermal activity, and rich birdlife. Wrap up the day with a stop at Dettifoss, Europe’s most powerful waterfall, where the sheer force of nature is unforgettable. Return to Akureyri for your overnight stay.

Depart from Akureyri and set your course for Egilsstaðir, passing through vast desert landscapes and rugged terrain. As you venture into the East Fjords, enjoy dramatic coastal views, winding roads, and charming fishing villages between towering mountains. Keep an eye out for wildlife, including reindeer roaming the hills. End the day with accommodation in the Breiðdalsvík area.

Travel toward the mighty Vatnajökull Glacier, the third-largest glacier on Earth. Along the way, explore the trails of Skaftafell National Park, known for its stunning glaciers, waterfalls, and black sand plains. Continue to the breathtaking glacial lagoons of Jökulsárlón and Fjallsárlón, where floating icebergs create unforgettable scenery.

Gear up for an unforgettable adventure as you journey toward Hella. Strap on crampons and trek across volcanic ash and coal-black sands, making your way to the icy tongue of the Sólheimajökull outlet glacier. Feel the crunch of ice beneath your feet and take in the stark beauty of the surrounding landscapes. After this thrilling experience, settle into your accommodation in Hella.

Set off from Hella aboard the Arctic Yeti Bus and journey into the heart of Landmannalaugar, a region renowned for its otherworldly beauty. Trek through a landscape shaped by ancient lava flows, surrounded by colorful mountains, shimmering lakes, and moss-covered terrain in vivid greens and yellows. Discover dramatic formations of basalt, obsidian, and rhyolite as you explore this volcanic wonderland. After an unforgettable day of hiking, return to your accommodation in the Hella area.

Head back to Reykjavik for a relaxing final day. Explore the city at your own pace, wander through lively streets, visit museums, or shop for local crafts. For a truly unforgettable experience, consider a visit to the Sky Lagoon for a soothing soak in its geothermal waters (optional). Enjoy your last evening in Iceland with accommodation in Reykjavik.

Enjoy a final free day in Reykjavik to relax, pick up last-minute souvenirs, or take a stroll through the city. When it’s time, return your vehicle and head to the airport for your departure flight, bringing your unforgettable Icelandic adventure to a close.

**Please note this is a sample self-drive itinerary and can be planned in the reverse direction as well. Your trip planner will help you customize the perfect itinerary for you!**