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Categories Self Drive Tours Adventure & Eco Travel Iceland on Sale! Summer Tours

Snorkeling between continents, rafting on glacial rivers, whale watching in Arctic waters, soaking in hot springs and riding gorgeous Icelandic horses are just some of the adventures you can enjoy on this self-drive journey specifically designed with the active family in mind. Iceland‘s rugged, unspoiled central highlands and Arctic northern coast provide an exciting variety of landscapes and terrains on this budget-friendly itinerary perfect for a family that loves exploring nature together.

Itinerary

Arrival Day

Approximate mileage: ca. 70 km / 45 miles

Upon arrival at Keflavik International Airport pick up your car rental, Iceland awaits! This day is open to your inspiration with several options available, depending on your flight arrival time. We recommend a visit to the world renowned Blue Lagoon Geothermal Spa, located just 15 minutes from the airport. The Blue Lagoon has a mystical appearance but its unique restorative powers are quite real and ideal for regaining your energy after a long flight. With a warm flowing waterfall, a hidden cave, and silica mud buckets to apply to your skin, there is plenty of relaxation for the whole family to soak up.

If heading to the capital of Reykjavik you may want to visit the newly opened Grandi Whale Museum which is the largest of its kind in Europe. If you’re looking for a fun place to spend the day look no further than the Reykjavik Family Park and Zoo in Laugardalur Valley. This family-friendly complex that is part zoo, aquarium, theme park, and adjacent geothermal swimming pool is so elaborate that it could take several days to explore.

Overnight in Reykjavik.

Optional: Whale Museum in Reykjavík

Golden Circle of Adventure

UNESCO National Park - Glacial Snorkeling - Waterfall Queen & Geyser King

Approximate mileage: ca. 180 km / 112 miles

The Golden Circle of natural wonders begins with a visit to the dramatic volcanic scenery of Thingvellir National Park (UNESCO). In a massive rift valley you see firsthand how Iceland is being pulled apart at the meeting of the North American and Eurasian tectonic plates. To fully appreciate the park’s wealth of geological formations you may want to try one of the world‘s most unique adventures, snorkeling in Silfra Gorge. Silfra is a deep fissure between two tectonic plates filled with glacial meltwater where you are literally swimming between continents. The crystal clear water provides a feeling of weightlessness made even more surreal by the bizarre underwater lava landscapes.

Golden Circle of Adventure

UNESCO National Park - Glacial Snorkeling - Waterfall Queen & Geyser King

Approximate mileage: ca. 180 km / 112 miles

The Golden Circle of natural wonders begins with a visit to the dramatic volcanic scenery of Thingvellir National Park (UNESCO). In a massive rift valley you see firsthand how Iceland is being pulled apart at the meeting of the North American and Eurasian tectonic plates. To fully appreciate the park’s wealth of geological formations you may want to try one of the world‘s most unique adventures, snorkeling in Silfra Gorge. Silfra is a deep fissure between two tectonic plates filled with glacial meltwater where you are literally swimming between continents. The crystal clear water provides a feeling of weightlessness made even more surreal by the bizarre underwater lava landscapes.

Kjölur Mountain Track

(Please note, if Kjölur is closed due to road conditions you will be redirected to take Route 1).

Uninhabited Interior - Nature Hiking - Hidden Hot Springs - River Wilderness

Approximate mileage: ca. 350 km / 220 miles

Time to discover the undiscovered! The Kjolur 4WD mountain route is open during the summer (from mid-June) and is a straight track (S-N) through Iceland‘s uninhabited interior highlands.This unique trek through vibrant thermal areas between Langjökull and Hofsjökull glaciers reveals Iceland‘s true remoteness and nature at its rawest. This area sets a stunning stage for the numerous hiking paths along the way dotted with hidden geothermal treasures and strange oases of vegetation for your discovery. Don‘t miss Hveravellir, one of the most beautiful geothermal areas in the world with a natural pool under open sky perfect for relaxing after an invigorating hike.

Upon arriving on the other side of the Kjolur highland route you will find yourself in North Iceland‘s Skagafjörður Horse Valley, famous for its horse breeding. This area is equally known for a wide variety of river rafting and kayaking adventures. There is a gentle rafting tour option that offers fun for the whole family as even a novice can pick up a paddle and thrill in Iceland’s stunning river wilderness.

Overnight in Skagafjörður area.

Optional: River rafting in Skagafjörður

The Troll peninsula

Vibrant Fjord Villages - Arctic Whale Watching - Capital of the North

Approximate mileage: ca. 190 km / 118 miles

Enjoy the peaceful mountain views and crisp Arctic air around Tröllaskagi peninsula, exploring the colorful fjord villages of Siglufjörður and Ólafsfjörður on your way towards Dalvik. The dramatic landscapes here were carved by glaciers during the last Ice Age and provide a special sense of discovery as you dance along the edge of the inhabitable world. Arriving in Dalvik you may opt to board an oak whale watching vessel for a 3-hour sail into the pristine Arctic waters which are ideal for encounters with the majestic blue whale, whose heart is the size of a car. Marine-life frequently spotted in these waters are humpback whales, white-beaked dolphins, minke whales, and small harbor porpoises.

On your first evening in Akureyri you may want to soak up the local ambiance of Iceland’s hip and happening ‘Capital of the North,’ with its 18,000 inhabitants, heart-shaped street-lights, free transit buses and arguably the warmest temperatures in the country. Strolling along the quaint pedestrian areas filled with outdoor cafes and visiting local favorite Brynjuís for some delicious ice cream is the perfect ending to this day in a surprisingly green community located only 96 kilometers (60 mi) from the Arctic Circle.

Overnight stay in Akureyri

Optional: Whale watching in Dalvík

Lake Mývatn and Dettifoss

Protected Nature Reserve - Geothermal Spa - Europe’s Mightiest Waterfall

Approximate mileage: ca. 200 km / 125 miles

The day begins with the picturesque ‘Waterfall of the Gods’, Goðafoss. Your journey continues onwards to explore the Lake Mývatn Nature Reserve, a geological wonderland of wildly contrasting nature with a number of easy walking paths the whole family can enjoy. Summertime during peak birding season is a good reason to have the binoculars ready for the diverse species and rare sightings like the barrow’s goldeneye. You can take a light hike in the “dark castles” of Dimmuborgir with its rugged crags and towering rocks. Afterwards, you can relax those muscles in soothing geothermal waters at the Mývatn Nature Spa with views over the lake and its tranquil surroundings. The grand finale of this eventful day is a visit to Europe’s mightiest waterfall, Dettifoss, a thundering cascade of glacial water and mist among shattered cliffs in Jokulsargljufur National Park.

Overnight stay again in Akureyri

Optional: Mývatn Nature Spa

Ring Road to Reykjavik

Botanical Gardens - Viking Horses - Seal Center

Approximate mileage: ca. 400 km / 250 miles

The drive between Akureyri and Reykjavik is approximately 4.5 hours. Before departing for Reykjavik along the Ring Road, take in some of the northern charms Akureyri (has on offer). This small city is ideally explored on foot and a stroll through the oldest part of town, Innbӕrinn, reveals colorful timber houses along the pond restored to their original glory. Other interesting sights are the northernmost botanical gardens in the world, an adorable Christmas Shop open all year round, and the Kjarnaskogur Woods with backcountry trails, playgrounds and picnic areas.

Approximately halfway back to Reykjavik you may want to take a break at the lovey Gauksmyri Lodge located on a former farmstead. Owned by horse enthusiasts, they offer demonstrations of the Icelandic Viking Horse and short riding tours in the incredible surrounding nature. Nearby is the Icelandic Seal Center which provides a fun and interactive learning experience on the six seal species found in Iceland.

Continuing onwards to Reykjavik the driving journey is completed and your final night is spent in the ‘Capital of Cool.’

Overnight in Reykjavik

Optional: Horse riding tour, Seal Center in Hvammstangi

Departure Day

Depart with plenty of memories and an adventure that will certainly impress and entertain your friends and family for years to come!

Optional: If you are departing on an afternoon flight, a wonderful way to say goodbye to Iceland is with a relaxing dip in the soothing waters of the Blue Lagoon Geothermal Spa, located just 15 minutes from Keflavík International Airport. Facilities also include a gift shop, cafeteria, and an excellent restaurant with lagoon views.

Car rental return is located at Keflavík International Airport.

Notes