Self-Drive Holidays
Driving in Iceland is an absolute pleasure. The road system is well-developed and easy to navigate. Route 1, commonly known as the Ring Road, was completed in 1974 and since then has become the most traveled route in Iceland. The route is open all year round. However, weather conditions in winter can cause temporary closures. Most major highways are paved, but most of the countryside road system is made up of gravel roads, particularly in the highlands. These roads can be in various conditions, with potholes or washboard surfaces, but with extra attention and care, you will have a comfortable driving tour.
Our self-drive tours of Iceland allow you to explore the land at your own pace. We will book your accommodations in advance so you can have a fun day driving around and enjoying the beautiful countryside. To make your driving experience easy and relaxing, we will provide a very detailed travel itinerary in English, including maps and information about driving in Iceland.
All roads are easy to follow and numbered. Highland routes are also signed, but some have unbridged rivers that require extra care and should not be attempted alone!
The minimum age for driving a rented car in Iceland is 23 for 4WD jeeps, vans, and minivans. For all other vehicle types, the minimum age is 20. All European and US driving licenses are valid in Iceland. Visitors from other countries should check with their local motoring organization.
Drive on the right, keep your headlights and seatbelts on at all times, and enjoy the freedom of the open road!
Iceland Grand Discovery
- Visit all the well-known attractions along the Ring Road.
- Explore the magical Snæfellsnes Peninsula and the less known but incredibly beautiful northeast coast at the edge of the Arctic Circle.
- Explore the breath-taking views and hidden gems of the rugged Westfjords region.
- Experience the amazing variety of landscapes and unforgettable images of this North Atlantic island.
Majestic Fjords
- Combine the “must-see” places along with Ring Road with the breathtaking beauty of Iceland’s more secluded gems
- Discover the ancient, rugged landscapes and distinctive cultures of Iceland’s Westfjords and Eastfjords
- Explore the majestic vistas of three national parks: Þingvellir, Vatnajökull, and Snæfellsjökull
- Have that camera ready: This itinerary has some of the country’s most amazing views, from steep fjords to black sand shores to volcanic formations
Around Iceland at a Leisurely Pace
This exciting road trip gives you extra time to enjoy each attraction on your Ring Road journey and is perfect if you wish to enjoy optional activities such as horse riding, glacier hiking, rafting, and snowmobiling.
Iceland’s Ring Road is more than just a highway! Some consider it a national landmark, just like the many sights and natural phenomena that line this scenic route. Some of our guests prefer staying more nights in each location, so we’ve taken our popular “Around Iceland” itinerary and built in extra days in each area. You’ll have ample time to enjoy local experiences, visit lesser-known wonders, and try unforgettable activities.
Hot Springs and Cool Arctic Roads Sep 24 – Apr 25
- Enjoy wonderful opportunities for hot spring bathing near the Arctic Circle
- Visit two charming towns, each with its own character and activities: Húsavík, and Akureyri
- Take amazing photos of impressive natural wonders such as Goðafoss and the Hraunfoss waterfalls and the volcanic Lake Mývatn area
Iceland Odyssey
Travel the full circle around Iceland and prepare for an overdose of scenery that is simply out of this world. As each days unfolds, you'll be surprised and delighted at the variety of experiences this beautiful island can offer, especially when driving past active volcanoes, blue icebergs, roaring waterfalls, and deep fjords on Iceland’s Ring Road.
Iceland Complete Self-Drive Summer
- View first-hand many classic natural wonders, including the Golden Circle area, the Glacier Lagoon and Mývatn Nature Reserve
- Experience the amazing variety of landscapes along the Ring Road
- Make great use of your time with this introductory tour of Iceland and its unique regions
- Visit three spectacular national parks: Þingvellir, Vatnajökull, and Snæfellsjökull
Spectacular West
Experience the unique and varied landscapes of the Snaefellsnes Peninsula and the magnificent Westfjords in western Iceland, which are truly a showcase of lava formations, glaciers, and Viking Saga history.
Golden Circle Self-drive
This popular self-drive tour focuses on the many star attractions of Iceland’s beautiful south. Stopping at impressive waterfalls and gleaming glaciers along the way, the tour hits all the major hot spots of the region, including the famous attractions of the Golden Circle; Geysir geothermal area, Gullfoss waterfall and Thingvellir National Park, and stunning black beaches.
Ring Road Highlights
This best selling classic circle tour allows you to travel along Iceland's famous Ring Road and see all of Iceland's most main attractions in one trip.
- May 1, 2025 — Sep 30, 2025
Glacial Adventure
Experience a week of natural wonders during peak northern lights season. Explore Iceland’s famous south and south-west, the perfect setting for glaciers, volcanoes, black-sand beaches, and geysers.
What’s better than spending a week exploring natural wonders? It’s discovering natural wonders during prime northern lights viewing season! Drive the dramatic coastlines of Iceland’s volcanic south and southwest, discovering the glaciers, black sand beaches, and glorious waterfalls. View the major natural wonders that have made Iceland famous, enhanced by the beautiful lights and shadows of an Arctic winter.
Highlands and Lowlands
- May 1, 2025 — Sep 30, 2025