Iceland Complete Self-Drive

Famous National Park – Geysers – Golden Waterfall

Today you’ll explore Iceland’s famous Golden Circle, a spectacular route combining fascinating history, dramatic landscapes and some of the country’s most famous natural wonders.

Begin your day at Þingvellir National Park, located beside Lake Þingvallavatn, Iceland’s largest natural lake. A UNESCO World Heritage Site, Þingvellir is steeped in Icelandic history and was the meeting place of the country’s parliament, established in the 10th century. The park is also where the North American and Eurasian tectonic plates are gradually pulling apart. Take a walk through the dramatic rift valley and experience the unusual sensation of standing between two continents.

Continue to Gullfoss, the spectacular “Golden Waterfall.” Several walking paths lead to wonderful viewpoints overlooking the powerful, two-tiered cascade as it plunges into the rugged canyon below. Nearby, explore the Geysir geothermal area, where steaming vents, bubbling mud pools and hot springs surround the famous Geysir and the highly active Strokkur, which erupts dramatically at regular intervals.

For a taste of Icelandic local life, consider a visit to Laugarvatn Fontana Geothermal Baths. Relax in the natural steam rooms and a variety of warm mineral pools while enjoying beautiful views of the surrounding countryside. Another delightful stop is Efstidalur, a family-run dairy farm famous for its homemade ice cream, skyr and cheese. Stop for a treat and, if you’re lucky, you may even meet some of the farm’s resident dairy cows.

Return to Hveragerði, a charming geothermal town surrounded by mountains and known for its greenhouses, gardens and abundant geothermal activity.

• Breakfast
• Hveragerði
• 205 km / 127 miles

Volcanic Valley – Waterfalls – Black Sand Beaches

Today you’ll journey through some of South Iceland’s most diverse and dramatic landscapes, from a secluded volcanic valley to powerful waterfalls and the rugged Atlantic coastline.

Begin your day by exploring Þjórsárdalur Valley, a beautiful and ever-changing landscape of birch woodland, sandy lava fields, winding rivers and cascading waterfalls. One of the highlights is Gjáin, a small and enchanting valley filled with lush vegetation, unusual volcanic formations and a series of miniature waterfalls and clear streams. On a clear day, you may also enjoy magnificent views of Mount Hekla, one of Iceland’s most famous volcanoes, rising dramatically above the surrounding countryside. Þjórsárdalur also served as a filming location for Game of Thrones Season 4, adding another fascinating connection to the region.

Continue your journey along the scenic farmlands of Iceland’s South Coast. Stop at two of the country’s best-known waterfalls, Seljalandsfoss and Skógafoss. At Seljalandsfoss, a walking path leads behind the cascading water when conditions allow, offering a memorable perspective. Nearby Skógafoss is an impressive wall of water plunging from the cliffs, often accompanied by beautiful rainbows on sunny days.

Continue east toward Dyrhólaey, a dramatic coastal promontory with spectacular views of the black volcanic coastline and the powerful Atlantic Ocean. From here, continue to Reynisfjara, Iceland’s famous black sand beach, where towering basalt columns, sea stacks and thundering waves create one of the country's most striking coastal landscapes. Your day ends in Vík, Iceland’s southernmost village and a perfect base for exploring the surrounding area.

Please note: Dyrhólaey is closed to visitors during the bird-nesting season, generally from mid-May through June 25.

• Breakfast
• Vik
• 295 km / 183 miles

Lava Fields – Iceberg Lagoon – Europe’s Largest Glacier

Today you’ll enter a spectacular world of glaciers, ice and black volcanic landscapes as you travel along Iceland’s South Coast toward Vatnajökull National Park, home to Europe’s largest glacier. Covering almost 14% of Iceland, the park is the largest national park in Western Europe and encompasses an extraordinary variety of landscapes shaped by fire and ice.

Continue east across vast black sand plains created by glacial outwash, with magnificent glaciers and rugged mountains appearing along the way. Explore the Skaftafell area, one of the most beautiful parts of Vatnajökull National Park, where lush green vegetation contrasts dramatically with the surrounding black sands and glacial landscapes. You’ll also have views of Svínafellsjökull, a spectacular glacial tongue extending from the mighty Vatnajökull ice cap.

The highlight of the day is Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon, where enormous pieces of ice break away from the glacier and float through the deep blue waters of the lagoon before slowly making their way toward the ocean. At up to 180 meters (591 feet) deep, the lagoon is one of Iceland’s most extraordinary natural sights. For an even closer experience, you can take an optional boat tour among the icebergs. We recommend booking this experience in advance and will be happy to assist with the reservation.

Just across the road, visit Diamond Beach, where pieces of ice from the lagoon are carried out to sea and washed back onto the black volcanic sand. The ice glitters like diamonds against the dark beach, creating one of Iceland’s most unforgettable photographic scenes.

Continue to Höfn, a charming fishing port surrounded by mountains and the vast Vatnajökull glacier. Höfn is known for its excellent seafood, particularly its local langoustines, and offers a nice selection of restaurants and cafés where you can enjoy a relaxing dinner.

• Breakfast
• Höfn
• 285 km / 177 miles

Narrow Fords – Steep Mountains – Picturesque Coastline

Today you’ll leave Höfn and continue east along one of Iceland’s most scenic and dramatic stretches of coastline. The road winds through the spectacular Eastfjords, where steep mountains rise dramatically from the sea and narrow fjords carve deep into the landscape.

Begin by crossing the Almannaskarð mountain pass, where you’ll have wonderful views over the rugged coastline and surrounding mountains. As you continue east, the landscape becomes increasingly dramatic, with towering peaks plunging almost vertically into the Atlantic Ocean. There will be plenty of opportunities to stop along the way, so keep your camera ready for some unforgettable views.

The route takes you through a series of charming fishing villages, each with its own history and character. Consider stopping in Djúpivogur, a picturesque harbor town and one of the gateways to the Eastfjords. Take a leisurely walk along the waterfront and look for Eggin í Gleðivík (“The Eggs of Merry Bay”), an unusual outdoor sculpture featuring replicas of the eggs of local bird species.

For a taste of local life, consider a stop at Beljandi Brewery in Breiðdalsvík, a small community-based microbrewery producing local craft beers. It’s a great place to relax and experience the welcoming character of the Eastfjords.

Continue inland toward Egilsstaðir, the largest town in East Iceland and the region’s main service center. Nearby lies Hallormsstaðaskógur, Iceland’s largest forest, as well as the beautiful waters of Lake Lagarfljót, which according to local legend is home to the mysterious Lagarfljót Worm. The area is also known for its excellent locally sourced cuisine, making Egilsstaðir a wonderful place to enjoy dinner and sample some of East Iceland’s regional flavors.

• Breakfast
• Eastfjords / Egilsstadir
• 260 km / 162 miles

Highland Desert – Bizarre Lava Formations – Volcanic Wonderland

Today you’ll travel through some of North Iceland’s most otherworldly landscapes, crossing the vast highland desert of Möðrudalsöræfi before reaching the volcanic wonderland of Lake Mývatn.

The journey begins across the remote and hauntingly beautiful Möðrudalsöræfi plateau, one of Iceland’s most desolate yet fascinating landscapes. Along the way, you’ll pass Möðrudalur, a historic farmstead located at the highest elevation of any working farm in Iceland. Surrounded by wide-open wilderness and dramatic mountain scenery, it offers a wonderful glimpse into Iceland’s remote rural heritage.

Continue toward Stuðlagil Canyon, one of Iceland’s most spectacular geological formations. The canyon is carved through layers of striking basalt columns, many of which resemble enormous organ pipes. A viewing platform provides an easy and safe way to admire the canyon and its remarkable geometric formations. The distinctive basalt columns are similar to those that inspired the architecture of Reykjavík’s famous Hallgrímskirkja church.

Next, visit Dettifoss, one of Europe’s most powerful waterfalls. Massive volumes of glacial water thunder over the edge into a rugged canyon, creating an unforgettable display of raw natural power.

Continue to the Námaskarð geothermal area, where the landscape suddenly transforms into a surreal palette of steaming vents, bubbling mud pools and vivid mineral colors. With the earth literally hissing and boiling beneath your feet, it is easy to imagine that you’ve landed on another planet.

As you explore the Lake Mývatn region, walk among the unusual pseudo-craters at Skútustaðir, formed by steam explosions when hot lava flowed over the wetland landscape. Then discover the mysterious lava formations of Dimmuborgir, a labyrinth of twisted rocks, caves and towering formations created by ancient volcanic activity. According to Icelandic folklore, the area is home to elves and other hidden people—and once you see its surreal landscape, it’s easy to understand why so many legends surround it.

With its extraordinary volcanic scenery, dramatic landscapes and almost otherworldly atmosphere, the Mývatn area has also become a popular location for film and television productions.

• Breakfast
• Lake Myvatn area
• 300 km / 186 miles

“Waterfall of the Gods” – Colorful Northern Capital – Art, Culture & Cuisine

After breakfast at your hotel, enjoy a final morning exploring the extraordinary landscapes around Lake Mývatn. Then continue west toward one of North Iceland’s most famous natural landmarks, the magnificent Goðafoss, known as the “Waterfall of the Gods.”

Goðafoss is not only beautiful but also deeply connected to Icelandic history. The waterfall is associated with a famous event surrounding Iceland’s adoption of Christianity in the year 1000, which is said to have given the waterfall its evocative name. Take some time to walk around the viewpoints and admire the powerful cascade as it tumbles over a broad horseshoe-shaped cliff.

Continue to Akureyri, Iceland’s colorful northern “capital,” beautifully situated at the head of Eyjafjörður, one of the country’s longest and most scenic fjords. Although relatively small, Akureyri has a lively cultural atmosphere, charming historic buildings, interesting shops and an excellent selection of restaurants and cafés.

The remainder of the day is yours to explore Akureyri at your own pace. Art lovers may enjoy wandering through Listagil, or “Art Canyon,” a vibrant area filled with galleries, studios and inviting cafés and pubs. Several museums offer an opportunity to learn more about the region’s history and culture.

Be sure to visit the Akureyri Botanical Garden, a remarkable collection of plants from Iceland and around the world. Its location so close to the Arctic Circle makes the variety of plants particularly impressive.

In the evening, take advantage of Akureyri’s excellent culinary scene and enjoy dinner at one of the town’s many restaurants, featuring everything from traditional Icelandic specialties to contemporary cuisine.

• Breakfast
• Akureyri
• 85 km / 53 miles

Scenic Valleys – Europe’s Largest Hot Spring – Picturesque Waterfalls

After breakfast, leave Akureyri and travel through the scenic valleys of North Iceland, surrounded by dramatic mountains and sweeping landscapes, as you make your way toward the historic Skagafjörður region.

Skagafjörður is renowned throughout Iceland for its long tradition of horse breeding and is considered one of the country’s finest regions for raising the distinctive Icelandic horse. These friendly, sure-footed horses are an important part of Icelandic heritage. If you would like a closer experience, consider joining an optional guided horseback riding tour and discover the countryside from the saddle.

Continue west across the Holtavörðuheiði plateau, a remote and beautiful highland route that brings you into West Iceland. Your journey continues through Borgarfjörður, a region where dramatic volcanic landscapes, lush vegetation and a fascinating Viking history come together.

One of the highlights is Grábrók Crater, a well-preserved volcanic crater rising above the surrounding landscape. A walking trail leads to the top, where you’ll be rewarded with panoramic views across the surrounding lava fields, valleys and mountains.

Continue to Deildartunguhver, the most powerful hot spring in Europe, where enormous volumes of steaming geothermal water surge from the earth. The hot spring provides naturally heated water to nearby communities and is a striking reminder of Iceland’s powerful geothermal forces.

Nearby, visit the spectacular Hraunfossar waterfalls, where countless streams of brilliantly blue water emerge from beneath dark lava formations and cascade into the Hvítá River. Just a short distance away is Barnafoss, a powerful and strikingly blue waterfall surrounded by rugged lava landscapes. The waterfall is associated with a poignant Icelandic legend that adds an intriguing human element to this dramatic natural setting.

• Breakfast
• Borgarfjörður area
• 415 km / 258 miles

Snæfellsjökull Glacier – Pebble Beaches – Dramatic Sea Cliffs – Charming Fishing Villages

Today you’ll explore the remarkable diversity of the Snæfellsnes Peninsula, often described as “Iceland in miniature” because so many of the country’s characteristic landscapes can be found here. From volcanic mountains and lava fields to rugged coastlines, fishing villages and dramatic sea cliffs, the peninsula offers a spectacular finale to your journey.

The centerpiece of the region is Snæfellsjökull Glacier, the magnificent ice-capped volcano that rises dramatically above the peninsula. The glacier covers a dormant volcano that last erupted around 250 AD and has long been surrounded by an aura of mystery. The mountain gained international fame as the setting for Jules Verne’s Journey to the Center of the Earth.

Continue to Djúpalónssandur, a beautiful black-pebble beach surrounded by dramatic lava formations and towering cliffs. A walking path leads down to the shore, where you can enjoy the wild beauty of Iceland’s Atlantic coastline. The beach is also steeped in maritime history, with remnants of an old fishing station still visible among the rocks.

Continue along the coast to the picturesque village of Arnarstapi, where spectacular basalt cliffs, sea arches and unusual rock formations rise dramatically from the ocean. The coastline is home to abundant birdlife, and a scenic walking path connects Arnarstapi with nearby Hellnar, offering wonderful views of the cliffs and surrounding landscapes.

The Snæfellsnes Peninsula is also rich in Icelandic folklore and saga history. According to one Icelandic Saga, the people of the peninsula are protected by a benevolent half-troll named Bárður, who is said to live within or near Snæfellsjökull. With its mystical landscapes, powerful natural forces and centuries of legends, it is easy to understand why the area has inspired so many stories and traditions.

Continue toward Kirkjufell, one of Iceland’s most recognizable and frequently photographed mountains. Rising dramatically beside the sea with its distinctive shape, Kirkjufell has become one of the iconic images of Iceland.

Late in the afternoon, continue your journey to Reykjavík, Iceland’s vibrant capital. Settle into your hotel and enjoy the evening at leisure, perhaps exploring the city’s lively streets or dining at one of its excellent restaurants.

• Breakfast
• Reykjavík
• 405 km / 252 miles

Explore Reykjavík – Culture & History – Shopping & Local Cuisine

Today is yours to enjoy Reykjavík at your own pace. After breakfast at your hotel, take the opportunity to discover Iceland’s vibrant capital, with its colorful buildings, lively streets, interesting museums and excellent cafés and restaurants.

Stroll through the city center and along the waterfront, visit the impressive Hallgrímskirkja Church, or explore the charming streets around Laugavegur, Reykjavík’s main shopping and dining area. You may also want to visit Harpa Concert Hall, admire the famous Sun Voyager sculpture, or explore one of the city’s many museums and galleries.

For those interested in Icelandic history and culture, Reykjavík offers several excellent museums, while food lovers can enjoy everything from traditional Icelandic specialties to innovative Nordic cuisine. You may also choose to relax at one of the city’s geothermal swimming pools or enjoy a leisurely afternoon at one of Reykjavík’s many cafés.

This is your final full day in Iceland, so take your time, enjoy the relaxed atmosphere and perhaps pick up some local souvenirs before your journey home.

• Breakfast
• Reykjavik

Enjoy your final breakfast in Iceland and take some time to relax before checking out of your hotel.

Depending on your flight departure time, you may have a little free time for a final stroll through Reykjavík, a last cup of Icelandic coffee, or some souvenir shopping. When it is time to leave, drive to Keflavík International Airport and return your rental car.

Your unforgettable Iceland adventure comes to an end as you board your flight home, taking with you memories of dramatic waterfalls, black sand beaches, glaciers, volcanic landscapes, charming villages and the spectacular scenery of the Icelandic countryside.

• Breakfast