Categories Summer Tours Scandinavia Iceland Self Drive Vacations Adventure & Eco Travel Self Drive Tours

This exciting road trip gives you 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.

Prices reflect recommended Category 2.0 car May-September

Category 5.0 for October-April

Itinerary

Blue Lagoon – Flower Village – Geothermal Greenhouses

Once you have landed at Keflavik Airport, please pick up your luggage and head through customs. Collect your rental car at the airport and proceed to your hotel. Depending on your arrival time in Iceland, we suggest that you take some time to explore the Reykjanes Peninsula (a UNESCO Geopark site) before you head to Reykjavik.

Reykjanes is a great introduction to Iceland’s unique geology and volcanoes and the site of two of Iceland’s most recent volcanic eruptions in 2021 and 2022 in the Fagridalur area. You’ll see unusual and stunning craters, lava cliffs, fissures and the Mid-Atlantic ridge itself. You can even walk on a bridge that divides Europe and North America. We also recommend a stroll in the surreal Gunnuhver area where you can view quirky colorful mud pools and steam vents bubbling away.

Reykjanes is also home to the renowned Blue Lagoon, and you might enjoy the chance to relax in the soothing azure waters. Important: Admission to the Blue Lagoon needs to be booked in advance. We can help you with that.

May – September: Drive along the southern coast of the Reykjanes Peninsula to the charming village of Hveragerdi for your overnight. This village is one of the few sites in the world located directly on top of a geothermal area and, because of its many greenhouses heated by hot water from nearby springs, it is often called the “flower village.” There are plenty of outdoor and wellness activities to enjoy here, and several restaurants with a unique local focus. Overnight in Hveragerdi. (Approximate distance: 100 km / 62 miles, with Reykjanes Peninsula 130 km / 81 miles)

Please note check-in for most hotels begins at 14:00 – 16:00 (2:00pm-4:00pm)

Optionals:

Panorama ATV/Quad tour in Reykjanes

Blue Lagoon Entrance

Approximate Distance:

210 km / 130 miles

National Park with Geological Wonders – Grand Geysers – Massive Waterfall

Visit the Golden Circle natural wonders. Visit Thingvellir National Park, site of the ancient Icelandic Viking parliament and a jewel of nature. Here you can see the meeting point between the North American and Europe continents. Many important historical events happened in this area. Several walking trails lead visitors to historical points of interest. If you enjoy adventure, you might try snorkeling in clear waters between two continents.

Explore Gullfoss, the “Golden Waterfall”, and the nearby Geysir hot spring area to see the famous Geysir and Strokkur, as well as numerous other hot springs and boiling mud pools. While in the area, take advantage of relaxing in one of the hot spring-fed pools that make Iceland so famous. The Secret Lagoon is a historical swimming pool with an all-natural feel and its own little geyser. The Laugarvatn Fontana steam baths are a local favorite; natural steam soothes away aches and pains, followed by relaxation in a series of hot spring pools.

Complete the Golden Circle with a visit to the impressive Kerid implosion crater that has a pool of blue water in the center. The reason the lake is so brilliantly colored is because of minerals from the rocks seeping into the water. Walking trails lead around the crater giving you some amazing views. Please note there is a small admission fee, and the money goes into protecting the landscape and the nature of the area.

Overnight in Hveragerdi.

Gullfoss Canyon Rafting – From Drumbó Base

Silfra Snorkeling (Meet on Location)

Meet Us at Gullfoss / Basecamp Snowmobiling

Secret Lagoon

Fontana Geothermal Baths

Approximate Distance:

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An Open Day to Enjoy the Area

We’ve left today open so you can discover more of the local treasures South Iceland holds. Try activities like hiking, guided mountain biking or horseback riding in this scenic hot spring-filled area. Or you can simply spend the day relaxing in the peaceful atmosphere of the town and its galleries and cafés.

You might take the South Coast road to the charming coastal villages of Stokkseyri and Eyrarbakki, both with lovely old buildings and great seafood restaurants. You could also drive through the beautiful Thjorsardalur valley towards the Hekla volcano. We recommend visiting the Viking replica farm of Stong, a historically accurate reconstruction of the three buildings, including a longhouse. Archeologists believe the farm was buried under volcanic ash during the 1104 AD eruption of nearby Mount Hekla. (Admission to Stong not included.) For those up for some hiking, the walk up to Haifoss, the third highest waterfall in Iceland, is worth the trip!

Overnight in Hveragerdi.

Approximate Distance:

230 km / 143 miles

Thundering Waterfalls – Seabirds – Black Beaches – Lava Fields

Drive along the spectacular south coast and view highlights along the way such as Seljalandsfoss and Skogafoss waterfalls and Myrdalsjokull glacier. Seljalandsfoss has a hiking trail that leads behind the waterfall. Skogafoss is a perfectly shaped waterfall that legends say hides buried treasure. Near Skogafoss is a fascinating folk museum with buildings and everyday items showing how locals lived over the centuries.

Solheimajokull and Myrdalsjokull glaciers offer great opportunities for guided snowmobile or ice hiking tours. During the summer you can even try kayaking in the small glacier lake near Solheimajokull. We’re happy to book you on one of these experiences!

Head to Vik, Iceland’s southernmost village. In the area you can view the seabird cliff of Dyrholaey* and the black sand beach of Reynisfjara.

Continue over Eldhraun, Iceland’s largest single lava flow, the result of a devastating 18th century eruption that caused widespread famine both in Iceland and Western Europe.

The last stop of the day is the stunning Fjadrargljufur canyon, which is a treat to photograph and roam.

Overnight in the Kirkjubaejarklaustur area.

*Please note that Dyrholaey is closed during nesting season in spring, from around mid-May until June 23rd.

Optionals:

Kayaking by Solheimajokull Glacier

Glacier Discovery (from Solheimajokull Base Camp)

Zipline Adventure in Vik

Snowmobiling on Myrdalsjokull Glacier (from Basecamp)

Black Sand Beach ATV Tour

Approximate Distance:

205 km / 128 miles

Glacier-Rimmed Oasis – Iceberg Lagoon – Europe’s Largest Glacier

Today you will be in the southern area of Vatnajokull National Park, named after Europe’s largest glacier. You’ll have this magnificent glacier in view as you follow Road 1.

Visit the park’s amazing Skaftafell area, a green oasis nestled between glaciers that offers many hiking possibilities. During summer months you can enjoy a trail leading to the basalt lined Svartifoss Waterfall. Skaftafell is also a beautiful area to enjoy guided hiking on one of the glaciers.

Continue to the shimmering icebergs of Jokulsarlon Glacial Lagoon, where you should take time to admire the views of the icebergs floating in the cool waters. You might even glimpse a few seals. An interesting experience you might enjoy is an amphibian or Zodiac boat tour that sails between the ice bergs. Nearby is the Diamond Beach, an area of glittering bits of glass-like ice scattered across black sands.

Continue onwards, perhaps taking a detour to the beautiful and much photographed mountain of Vestrahorn. Head on to harbor town of Hofn, also known as the langoustine capital of northern Europe. This is a local specialty at several restaurants.

Overnight in the Hofn area.

Optionals:

Amphibian Boat Tour on Glacial Lagoon (from the lagoo

Zodiac Boat Tour on Fjallsarlon Ice Lagoon

Glacier Wonders – Glacier Hike in Skaftafell

Approximate Distance:

300 km / 186 miles

Narrow Fjords – Steep Mountains – Picturesque Coastline

Drive through the spectacular Eastfjords region with towering mountains and charming fishing villages to the fertile Egilsstadir area. On the way, you might opt to visit the quirky egg sculptures in the harbor of charming Djupivogur village. Anyone who enjoys offbeat attractions will want to visit Petra’s Mineral Collection in Stodvarfjordur. This small museum of natural stones and mineral rocks started as a personal hobby by a local resident.

You can either drive straight through Fagridalur (the Beautiful Valley) to Egilsstadir or head along the Eastfjords. Although many are uninhabited, each fjord has its own grandeur. Some of the unique villages include Faskrudsfjordur and its interesting French connection, Reydarfjordur and its World War II heritage, and Eskifjordur with its fishing traditions.

In the Egilsstadir area, you can visit the beautiful Hallormsstadur forest and a river reputed to be the home of a friendly sea monster. Perhaps you’ll end the day at Lake Urridavatn’s Vok Baths, where you can unwind in untouched nature in distinctive floating geothermal pools.

Overnight in the Eastfjords area.

Optionals:

Petra’s Icelandic Minerals Museum

Vök Geothermal Baths

Approximate Distance:

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Open Day in the Beautiful East

Drive to Seydisfjordur, one of the most enchanting villages in Iceland with its well-preserved wooden houses, steep mountains and picture-perfect fjord scenery. The town has become a residency for artists, and you will certainly enjoy viewing interesting artistic works around the area.

Then head to Bakkagerdi (Borgarfjordur Eystri), one of Iceland’s smallest villages. What it lacks in human population, it makes up for with other “residents.” Bakkagerdi is rumored to have Iceland’s elf and fairy colonies, and a wealth of local legends about them. There also is a bird viewing platform where you can glimpse many seabirds, including curious and colorful puffins, up close. (Puffins are generally in Iceland between mid-May and mid-August.) If you like local culture, we recommend the walking tour of the town, which introduces you to daily life and the region’s elf heritage.

Other places you could visit in East Iceland include the ribbon-like Hengifoss waterfall or the serene Hallormsstadir National Forest.

Another unique – and highly reviewed – place to visit is the Wilderness Center. This old farm turned into a living history exhibition is located at the edge of the wild eastern highlands. You’ll enjoy the interactive exhibit about the area’s history and wildlife. The Center also offers guided horseback riding and hiking trips, as well as a rustic hot spring pool and sauna. The farmhouse café serves tasty treats with locally sourced ingredients from farms and the wilderness.

Overnight in the Eastfjords area.

Approximate Distance:

165 km / 102 miles

Bizarre Lava Formations – Geothermal Activity – Volcanic Wonderland

Drive to the volcanic wonderland of Lake Myvatn and the surrounding area. Visit volcanic highlights such as the lava citadels at Dimmuborgir, the pseudo craters at Skutustadir, the colorful slopes of Namaskard, and the Krafla volcano area. Some spots in the region look otherworldly; it’s no surprise that several famous movies and television shows have been filmed in Myvatn.

You can also enjoy fun activities such as horseback riding, mountain biking and even dog sledding (winter).

After a day of amazing sights, it is a wonderful option to take a dip in the soothing azure waters of the Myvatn Nature Baths.

Overnight in the Lake Myvatn area.

Optional:

Myvatn Nature Baths

Approximate Distance:

250 km / 155 miles

Powerful Waterfall – Glacier-Carved Gorge – Whale Watching

Drive north to the charming fishing port of Husavik, where we suggest you enjoy a whale watching boat tour. The internationally famous Whale Museum should also be on your list. If you want to indulge in some hot spring relaxation, we definitely recommend the unique geothermal sea bathing at the new GeoSea Natural Baths.

Head around the fossil rich Tjornes peninsula on the edge of the Arctic Circle to Jokulsargljufur, the northern part of Vatnajokull National Park. Check out Asbyrgi, a magnificent horseshoe shaped canyon in the park. Trails lead through peaceful forested areas to a hidden canyon lake. The national park roads take you through dramatic canyonlands created by a river flowing from Vatnajokull glacier. The crown jewel of the area is surely Dettifoss waterfall, the most powerful one in Europe.* Return to the Myvatn area for your overnight.

*Possible between late May and September.

Important

Please note Roads 864, 862 and therefore Road 85 are usually closed during the fall, winter and spring until the end of May. (Road opening dates are dependent on the weather conditions.) Roads 864 and 862 are gravel roads, and you must heed warning signs in the area if road conditions are not good for driving. It is not possible to visit Dettifoss between October and April, as the roads to the waterfall are not safe for winter travel.

Overnight in the Lake Myvatn area.

Optionals:

GeoSea Geothermal Sea Baths in Husavik

Whale Watching from Husavik

Big Whale Safari and Puffins in RIB boats (from Husavik)

Husavik Silent Whale Watching (Carbon Neutral Tour)

Approximate Distance:

255 km / 158 miles

Waterfall of the Gods – Gorgeous Fjord Views – Charming Towns

Drive westward, visiting beautiful Godafoss, the Waterfall of the Gods. Take some time to visit Akureyri, Iceland’s colorful northern “capital.” This pretty town is full of interesting shops and museums, as well as a well-kept botanical garden.

Drive to Siglufjordur along one of Iceland’s most dramatic coastlines, enjoying a unique view towards the North Atlantic. This is the region of the Troll Peninsula, where the steep Icelandic mountains drop towards the sea. The town of Siglufjordur itself has many beautifully restored, colorful buildings. One of the most interesting (and unique) places to visit is the Herring Era Maritime Museum, where you’ll step back into the early 20th century when this small town became an international fishing boom town.

Once leaving Siglufjordur, you’ll enter Skagafjordur, an area known for its historical heritage and an abundance of purebred Icelandic horses.

If you’re looking for a unique and relaxing geothermal pool experience, we suggest a stop in Hofsos to relax in the town’s “Infinity Pool” that appears to reach far into the sea.

Overnight in Northwest Iceland.

Please Note: The Ring Road route today contains a toll tunnel. More information on the tunnel and fees is here.

Optional:

Whale Watching from Dalvik

Approximate Distance:

310 km / 192 miles

Viking Heritage – Lava Waterfalls – Europe’s Most Powerful Hot Spring

Drive along the northern coast of Iceland on the way to the beautiful western part of the country.

Explore the gem of Borgarfjordur, a charming area of volcanic landscapes and Viking history. This is one of our favorite areas to find beautiful handicrafts and taste local farm products.

Visit the brilliantly blue waters of Hraunfossar and Barnafoss falls, and the hot spring Deildartunguhver. Near the hot springs is Krauma, the relaxing “fire and ice” geothermal spa that uses a soothing blend of hot springs and glacier water.

There are several optional activities you can enjoy (and we can book) such as the lava tunnel Vidgelmir, venturing inside a glacier, or taking a guided hike to a hidden canyon hot spring pool. West Iceland was one of the country’s areas to be settled by Viking pioneers. If you’re interested in Viking history, we suggest a stop at the interactive Icelandic Settlement Center in Borgarnes town.

Overnight in the Borgarfjordur area.

Optionals:

Krauma Nature Baths

Into the Glacier – Classic Tour (from Husafell)

Approximate Distance:

370 km / 230 miles

Quaint Fishing Villages – Picturesque Waterfalls – Famous Mountain

Today, you will explore the ever-changing beauty of Snaefellsnes peninsula and Snaefellsjokull National Park. Snaefellsnes is known as “Iceland in a Nutshell” since you can see samples of most Icelandic landscapes in one area.

Visit Arnarstapi sea cliffs where many types of seabirds live. If you enjoy hiking, there is a great nature trail you can hike between Arnarstapi and Hellnar villages. (4.3 km/2.7 miles). Crowning the area is the glacier-topped Snaefellsjokull volcano, legendary home to a guardian spirit. Driving through the park gives you a chance to view the mountain from many different angles.

Visit Djupalonssandur with its mysteriously shaped rocks and black pebbled beach. Then head along the north coast through lively fishing villages. Keep an eye out for Kirkjufell, the photogenic Church Mountain.

You can enjoy guided activities in the region such as visiting Vatnshellir lava cave, whale watching near Olafsvik, and sea kayaking in the vicinity of Kirkjufell.

Drive through scenic Hvalfjordur (a fjord named after a legendary red-headed whale) on the way to Reykjavik, Iceland’s vibrant capital. As you head to the city, you might enjoy the rustic and relaxing Hvammsvik seawater baths. You’ll feel close to nature as you relax in a series of stone-lined pools with scenic views.

Overnight in Reykjavik.

Optionals:

Vatnshellir Caving (from Snaefellsnes Peninsula)

Whale Watching from Olafsvik village

Viking “Sushi” Boat Tour

Hvammsvik Hot Springs

Approximate Distance:

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Enjoy your day in the world’s northernmost capital city!

No trip to Iceland is complete without a visit to Iceland‘s capital city! The day is open for you to explore the vibrant culture of Reykjavik. Here are a few suggestions from our staff. Guided walking tours are a great way to learn about history and daily life of the city. One of our favorite tours is the Reykjavik Food Walk, a small-group tour that includes stops to sample Icelandic taste treats. Stroll the Old Harbor area, known for its artistic shops and unique eateries, including the Grandi Food Hall. Browse for Icelandic products on Laugavegur, Iceland’s main shopping street.

It’s also fun to explore the areas around the city with your car. The Arbaejarsafn Museum is an Open Air museum with a collection of houses from two hundred years of Reykjavik’s history. You can stroll around the “village” and see how people lived in the past. Hafnarfjordur town has an interesting connection to legends of elves and Hidden People, and a charming harbor area that is ideal for a seaside walk and a visit to a café or art shop.

Do you like hiking? During the summertime, a very local activity you might enjoy on your own is a hike up the beautiful Mount Esja outside the city, followed up with waffles and coffee at a Reykjavik café and a dip in a geothermal swimming pool.

You can also enjoy year-round outdoor activities in the area, including horseback riding through lava fields, a visit to a multicolored lava cave, guided ATV tours up a nearby mountain, and whale watching from the Old Harbor area.

Overnight in Reykjavik.

Drive back to Keflavik International Airport. We recommend departing your hotel in Reykjavik no later than at least 3 hours before your flight departure. It takes approximately 1 hour to drive to the airport, and check-in will start 2 hours before your departure.

If you did not visit the Blue Lagoon on your first day but have some free time today, you might want to use the opportunity en route to the airport. For this detour, please be sure to allow for at least 2-2,5 hours extra so you’ll have ample time at the lagoon. Your rental car should be returned to the airport service area, which is located only 2 minutes from the airport building. A shuttle will then transport you to the departure hall.

Optionals:

Panorama ATV/Quad tour in Reykjanes

Sky Lagoon Pass

Blue Lagoon Entrance

Notes