Ultimate Iceland Road Trip - 10-Day Self-Drive

Day 1 · Arrival

1. 1

   Reykjavik

   2 hours

   Upon landing in Iceland, collect your rental car at the airport. Embark on your journey from the airport, traversing the otherworldly lava fields that define the Reykjanes Peninsula. This unique, volcanic landscape, adorned with moss-covered rocks and framed by distant mountains, serves as a mesmerizing gateway to Iceland's natural marvels. Depending on your arrival time, the rest of the day is a leisure. Your first night will be spent in Reykjavík, the country's vibrant capital.

   Driving: Approx 50 km (31 miles)

   Accommodation: Reykjavík.

Hotel in Reykjavík.

Day 2 · South Shore

1. 1

   Seljalandsfoss waterfall

   3 hours

   Driving along Iceland's south coast is an expedition through some of the most breathtaking scenery the island has to offer. Your journey begins with a visit to Seljalandsfoss waterfall, where the water cascades over a cliff into a serene pool below, allowing visitors to walk behind the falls for a unique perspective.

2. 2

   Skogafoss

   one hour

   Continuing along the coast, Skógafoss awaits with its powerful water plummeting down from a height, creating a mist that dances in the light.

3. 3

   Reynisfjara Beach

   2 hours

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

4. 4

   Vik

   2 hours

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

Hotel in Vík Area

Day 3 · Vatnajökull National Park

1. 1

   Skaftafell

   4 hours

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

2. 2

   Jokulsarlon

   4 hours

   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.

3. 3

   Hofn

   one hour

   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.

Hotel in Höfn Area

Day 4 · East Fjords

1. 1

   Djupivogur

   3 hours

   Setting off from Höfn, your drive to Egilsstaðir takes you on an unforgettable journey through the East Fjords, a region famed for its dramatic landscapes, quaint villages, and serpentine roads that hug the coastline. This route unfolds a less-travelled side of Iceland, where the raw beauty of nature 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 a series of charming fishing villages and hamlets, each with its own unique character. Djúpivogur is a delightful stop, known for its art installations and birdlife.

2. 2

   Faskrudsfjordur

   3 hours

   Further along, the road winds through Fáskrúðsfjörður, where French fishermen once wintered, leaving a cultural imprint that lingers to this day. Reaching the northern part of the fjords, the landscape softens, revealing fertile valleys and rivers teeming with salmon.

3. 3

   Egilsstadir

   2 hours

   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.

Hotel in Egilsstaðir Area

Day 5 · Lake Mývatn

1. 1

   Dettifoss Waterfall

   3 hours

   After driving through vast black desert of northeast Iceland you 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.

2. 2

   Stop 2

   30 min

   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 colours.

3. 3

   Earth Lagoon Myvatn (Jardbodin vid Myvatn)

   one hour Admission not included

   Nearby, a visit to the Mývatn Nature Baths could provide a relaxing interlude. Mývatn Nature Baths offer 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.

4. 4

   Hverfjall

   one hour

   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.

5. 5

   Dimmuborgir Lava Formations

   one hour

   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.

6. 6

   Skutustaoagigar

   2 hours

   Finally, we recommend visiting the pseudo craters Skútustaðagígar, a fascinating glimpse into the geological processes that shape Iceland's dynamic landscape.

Hotel in Mývatn Area.

Day 6 · Akureyri & Húsavík

1. 1

   Husavik

   3 hours

   Head north to Húsavík, a small town on the coast known as the whale watching capital of Iceland. Once in Húsavík, consider booking a whale watching tour to encounter minke and humpback whales, and even orcas during certain times of the year. Don’t forget to visit the Húsavík Whale Museum, which provides in-depth information about the marine life in Icelandic waters.

2. 2

   Asbyrgi

   3 hours

   If you are not interested in a whale watching tour you could instead drive to Ásbyrgi and back. The return trip is 125 km (78 miles) in total but well worth the visit as Ásbyrgi is a stunning glacial canyon known for its distinctive horseshoe shape. The canyon is surrounded by high cliffs and encloses a lush, forested area, a rarity in Iceland.

3. 3

   Stop 3

   2 hours

   After Húsavík, drive south towards Goðafoss, one of Iceland's most majestic waterfalls. Known as the "Waterfall of the Gods," Goðafoss is significant in Iceland’s history as the site where the law speaker Þorgeir Ljósvetningagoði made Christianity the official religion of Iceland by throwing his pagan idols into the falls around the year 1000.

4. 4

   Akureyri

   2 hours

   Continue your journey to Akureyri, known for its charming atmosphere and cultural vitality. Spend time exploring the city’s attractions such as the Akureyri Botanical Garden, the Akureyri Church, and the bustling downtown area.

Hotel in Akureyri Area

Day 7 · Borgarfjörður

1. 1

   Skagafjordur

   4 hours

   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 og Iceland and the medieval turf houses at Glaumbær. Drive over the Holtavörðuheiði highland road to Borgarfjörður.

2. 2

   Reykholt

   one hour

   When 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.

3. 3

   Deildartunguhver Thermal Spring

   one hour

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

4. 4

   Hraunfossar

   2 hours

   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.

5. 5

   Borgarnes

   2 hours

   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.

Hotel in Borgarnes Area

Day 8 · Snæfellsnes Peninsula

1. 1

   Gerduberg basalt columns

   3 hours

   Embarking on a drive around the Snæfellsnes Peninsula immerses you in a landscape brimming with geological diversity, mythical aura, and captivating coastal vistas. This region, often referred to as "Iceland in Miniature," distils much of the nation’s essence into one easily accessible peninsula. One of your first stops could be the Gerðuberg basalt columns, a striking cliff of geometrically perfect hexagonal columns that form a beautiful, natural structure.

2. 2

   Ytri Tunga Beach

   1 h 30 min

   Then visit Ytri Tunga Beach. Unlike many of Iceland's black sand beaches, Ytri Tunga features golden sands and rocky outcrops, creating a picturesque and serene environment. Visitors can often spot seals lounging on the rocks or swimming in the shallow waters, especially during the summer months.

3. 3

   Arnarstapi

   1 h 30 min

   Continue to the small coastal villages of Arnarstapi and Hellnar. Here, a scenic walking trail connects the two villages, offering stunning views of the Atlantic Ocean.

4. 4

   Hellnar

   30 min

   Hellnar, a short distance from Arnarstapi, is a quaint village with a rich history dating back to the early settlement of Iceland. It is renowned for its charming old houses and the nearby Hellnar Church. The coastal trail between Arnarstapi and Hellnar offers breathtaking views of the ocean and the cliffs, providing an excellent opportunity for hiking and birdwatching.

   Together, Arnarstapi and Hellnar provide a glimpse into Iceland's natural beauty and cultural heritage, making them must-visit destinations on the Snæfellsnes Peninsula.

5. 5

   Djupalonssandur Beach

   one hour

   Driving further, you enter Snæfellsjökull National Park, dominated by the glacier capped Snæfellsjökull volcano. The park offers various hiking trails, scenic viewpoints, and access to caves like Vatnshellir, a remarkable lava tube that delves deep into the volcanic underworld. Make a stop at Djúpalónssandur, a beautiful black pebble beach surrounded by dark cliffs and dramatic sea stacks. The beach is also historically significant, once home to one of the most prolific fishing villages on the peninsula.

6. 6

   Kirkjufell Mountain

   2 hours

   No tour of Snæfellsnes would be complete without visiting Kirkjufell, a beautifully symmetrical mountain near Grundarfjörður, famed as one of the most photographed mountains in Iceland. Its distinct shape and the nearby Kirkjufellsfoss waterfall make it a photographer’s dream.

7. 7

   Borgarnes

   2 hours

   Borgarnes is a charming town in West Iceland, known for its stunning views and rich history, Borgarnes features attractions like the Settlement Center, which showcases the town's Viking heritage, and the Borgarfjörður Museum. The town is also a gateway to exploring nearby natural wonders, including waterfalls, hot springs, and scenic landscapes.

Hotel in Borgarnes Area

Day 9 · The Golden Circle

1. 1

   Thingvellir National Park

   3 hours

   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.

2. 2

   Laugarvatn

   one hour

   Continuing to Laugarvatn, you'll encounter a serene lake area known for its geothermal activity. You can hike around the lake or visit the geothermal spa located on the water's edge. The small town at the lake has a good restaurant where you can grab a bite to eat.

3. 3

   Geysir

   2 hours

   Continue your journey to the Geysir geothermal area in Haukadalur valley. Although the Great Geysir is mostly dormant, its neighbour 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.

4. 4

   Gullfoss Falls

   one hour

   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.

5. 5

   Reykjavik

   2 hours

   After exploring the Golden Circle, head back to Reykjavík.

   Reykjavík, Iceland's capital, is known for its vibrant culture and stunning natural surroundings. Highlights include the iconic Hallgrímskirkja church, the Harpa Concert Hall, and the city's numerous museums. As the cultural and economic heart of Iceland, Reykjavík offers a mix of historical sites and modern amenities.

Hotel in Reykjavík.

Day 10 · Departure

1. 1

   Keflavik

   2 hours

   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.