Have questions? We're here.
The amazing Godafoss Waterfall

Iceland Ring Road Self-Drive Adventure

Iceland Self-drive Tour - Example 11 Day Tour
Talk with an expert
Build your ideal Iceland trip. Call 1.406.541.2677
Start Planning My Trip
Take the wheel and dive into Iceland’s raw beauty on this action-packed 11-day Ring Road self-drive adventure. Start in Reykjavik, explore local hotspots, savor Icelandic flavors, and soak up the city’s lively energy. Hit the road toward the Snaefellsnes Peninsula, where rugged coastlines and volcanic peaks push the pace. Head north to Akureyri, Iceland’s second city, known for its easy charm and scenic views. Drive through the remote beauty of Breiðdalsvík, then tackle the glaciers of Skaftafell and Laugan National Park, perfect for outdoor thrills. Strap on crampons for an unforgettable glacier trek, then venture into Landmannalaugar’s wild highlands for one last epic challenge.
View of Reykjavik from the Church TowerBeautiful arctic landscapeBig blue icebergs at glacier lagoon on IcelandThe stunning Seljalandsfoss in IcelandA quaint Catholic Church in AkureyriHiking to Gljufrafoss near SeljalandsfossVolcanic rock formations in Lake MyvatnDettifoss, the most powerful waterfall in EuropeHiker in LandmannalaugarThe amazing Godafoss Waterfall
Highlights
  • Drive the famous Golden Circle and see Geysir and Gullfoss waterfall
  • See volcanic peaks and black sand beaches of the Snaefellsnes Peninsula
  • Visit Akureyri, Iceland’s charming northern capital
  • Travel through isolated fishing villages and the picturesque East Fjords
  • Experience an unforgettable crampon trekking adventure in Sólheimajökull
  • Explore the rugged beauty of Landmannalaugar’s highlands and hot springs
Activities
Places Visited
  • Arctic
  • Europe
  • Iceland
  • Akureyri
  • Reykjavik
  • Breiðdalsvík
  • Egilsstaðir
  • Fjallabak Nature Reserve
  • Hella
  • Landmannalaugar
  • Skaftafell Park
  • Snæfellsnes Peninsula
  • Sólheimajökull Glacier
  • Southern Iceland
  • Vatnajökull National Park
  • Þingvellir National Park
Activity Level: Variable
Activity options vary depending on destination and operator. Activity level is determined by the range and intensity of activities you choose to participate in. Discuss with your Trip Planner which options are best for you.
0

Full Itinerary

Expand All

Day 1: Arrive in Iceland | Reykjavik

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. 

Day 2: Golden Circle | Þingvellir National Park

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

Day 3: Explore the Snæfellsnes Peninsula

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.


 

Day 4: Journey to Akureyri | Capital of the North

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.

Day 5: Akureyri's Waterfall Wonders

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.

Day 6: Egilsstadir | East Fjords | Breiðdalsvík

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.

Day 7: Skaftafell and Vatnajökull Glaciers Adventure

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.

Day 8: Crampon Trekking on Sólheimajökull Glacier | Hella

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.

Day 9: Landmannalaugar Adventure | 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.

Day 10: Return to Reykjavik | Free Day to Explore

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.

Day 11: Return Home

  • 1 Breakfast
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!**

Accommodations

Southern Iceland - Hotels

Reykjavik - Hotels

Snæfellsnes Peninsula - Hotels

Breiðdalsvík - Hotels

Hella - Hotels

Akureyri - Hotels

Dates & Prices

My Preferred Start Date

Per person starting at
$3,859 2-3 travelers

Notes

Select a Date
Pricing based on two people in a 4x4 SUV vehicle rental. Various rental car options are available and group pricing will vary.

Rates may vary based on current exchange rate.

Included
  • 10 Breakfasts
  • 10 Nights Accommodations
  • Accommodations as listed
  • Ground transportation as listed
  • Activities as listed
  • Meals as listed
  • Access to a 24-7 Emergency line while traveling
  • Iceland tourist activity fees
  • Toyota Rav 4x4 with unlimited mileage
Excluded
  • Gratuities
  • Travel Insurance
  • Personal Expenses
  • Flight costs (please request a quote)
  • Additional excursions during free time
  • Fuel and transportation surcharges (when applicable)
  • Rental Car Fuel
  • Optional tours or excursions not mentioned in the program
  • Medical Expenses and Insurance of Any Kind
  • International and Domestic flights
  • Expenses derived from adverse weather, transportation delays, or anything not specified in the inclusions

Map

When to Go

Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec
Good to ideal period to travel, and many people choose to visit at this time.
Typically not offered during this period because of weather conditions.

Inquire

* By providing your phone number, you consent to receive direct phone calls or SMS messages from our Trip Planners to get the process started. We do not share your information with third-parties.
Change & customize to make it yours.
Travel Agents

We Love to Talk Travel

Call 1.800.344.6118
or
Chat Now
I could not be happier with my Adventure Life experience, from beginning to end. I travel a lot, and I think your company and personnel do an outstanding job. I truly appreciate your professionalism, attentiveness, and flexibility. I wouldn't hesitate to recommend your company and would be happy to serve as a reference.
Constance Block

Iceland Travel Guide

Top Iceland Travel Destinations

Iceland Trips by Departure Date

Top Experiences in Iceland

Iceland Trips by Duration

Iceland Trips by Activity

More Reasons

Why Travel With Adventure Life

All News

Recognized By