10-Day Ring Road Road Trip | Self-Drive Tour of Golden Circle, South Iceland, Lake Myvatn & Snæfellsnes Peninsula

Duration

10 days

Availability

May - September

Difficulty

Easy

Minimum Age

No Age Limit

Overview

Grab the wheel and explore the best Iceland has to offer this summer. On this 10-day self-drive tour, you’ll circle the whole island, including Snæfellsnes Peninsula. You’ll stop at stunning locations such as Reynisfjara Black Sand Beach, Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon, Dettifoss Waterfall, and Akureyri town. Those looking for the ultimate road trip in the land of ice and fire need to look no further.

A self-drive tour provides you with the freedom to explore on your own terms. There will be no impatient tour guides, and you can easily avoid all crowds. All accommodations, a rental car and optional activities will be booked for you beforehand, and you’ll receive a personal itinerary guiding you to the most remarkable spots.

During the booking process, you can add a few adventures to make this trip even more memorable. These include unwinding at the Blue Lagoon, stepping inside an ice cave, descending into a volcano, glacier hiking, and riding the Icelandic horse.

Take your time as you circle the whole island, visiting all of Iceland’s national parks, and enjoy the unparalleled natural scenery for which this country is known.

Included

  • 9 nights of accommodation (different levels available; breakfast included for all levels; more detailed info in accommodation tab)
  • Vehicle for the duration of the trip with unlimited mileage (VW Golf 2WD or similar. Upgrades available)
  • Medium Protection Package for car rental: CDW, SCDW, PAI, THW and GP (More Info Click Here)
  • Mobile WIFI including 3GB total
  • Detailed Itinerary with fun and practical information on the nature, history and culture of Iceland
  • Hands-on travel agent to oversee your itinerary
  • Taxes

Not included

  • Flights to/from Iceland
  • Personal travel insurance
  • Gasoline/Petrol
  • Driving-Related Fees
  • Meals & drinks (unless otherwise stated)
  • Any services not listed as “Included”

Itinerary

Sun Voyager Sculpture on the coastline of Reykjavik

Day 1 – Arrival in Iceland

As your plane gets ready to land, you can see the vast lava fields of the Reykjanes Peninsula out of the window. Here is where Keflavík International Airport is located and where your holiday in Iceland begins.

Once you land, collect your bags and your rental vehicle, and drive across the volcanic landscape towards the city of Reykjavík where you will spend your first night.

En route, you can see white billows rising from the lava field. Don’t worry; this is not a sign of volcanic activity but the steam from the geothermal spa the Blue Lagoon. You can book a ticket to this luxurious spa during the booking process and stop there on the way to the city. It is a fantastic way to rid you of all jet lag you might have.

When you arrive in Reykjavík, check into your hotel and unwind. Alternatively, you can explore the city and, perhaps, take in the vibrant nightlife.

  • Reykjanes Peninsula – a vast field of moss-covered lava
  • Reykjavík City – Iceland’s lively capital
  • Laugavegur Shopping Street – filled with shops, restaurants, bars, and cafes
  • Blue Lagoon Comfort Entrance: Includes entrance to the Blue Lagoon, silica mud mask, use of towel and 1st drink of your choice.
  • Blue Lagoon Premium Entrance: Includes entrance to the Blue Lagoon, silica mud mask, use of towel, 1st drink of your choice, second mask of choice, slippers, use of bathrobe, table reservation at Lava Restaurant, and sparkling wine if dining.
Erupting Strokkur geyser at sunset

Day 2 – Discovering the Golden Circle

Now your adventure on the road begins. After breakfast, hop in your car and leave the city behind. Make your way to the first stop on the Golden Circle route, Þingvellir National Park, where Viking settlers gathered to lay the law of the land over a thousand years ago.

The park is not only historically significant, but it is a geographical wonder; it is where the Eurasian and the N-American tectonic plates meet. Silfra is fissure filled with crystal-clear glacial water. It is located on the boundaries of these plates, and today, you’ll have the unique opportunity to swim between the continents on a snorkelling tour in Silfra.

After exploring Þingvellir National Park, drive to Geysir Geothermal Area where you can watch the geyser Strokkur erupt in a large column of hot water and steam. From there, make your way to Gullfoss waterfall to see freezing glacial water plummet down 32 metres into an ancient canyon.

If you are looking for an adrenaline rush today, consider joining a snowmobile tour on top of Langjökull, the very glacier that feeds Gullfoss waterfall. Children over the age of six can ride as passengers, making this a great action-packed activity for the entire family.

Another fantastic and family-friendly activity which you can join today is a horse riding tour through the countryside. Icelandic horses are small and friendly creatures, the perfect companions for beginner and expert riders alike.

After exploring the sites of the Golden Circle — perhaps with a detour to Kerið Crater Lake, Skálholt historical site or Efstidalur farm — head to your accommodation which is located in the area.

  • Þingvellir National Park – A historical site which marks the boundaries of two continents.
  • Geysir Geothermal Area – Home of bubbling mud pools and erupting geysers.
  • Strokkur – A geyser that erupts every 5-10 minutes, reaching a height of 15-20 metres.
  • Gullfoss Waterfall – Iceland’s most beloved cascade.
  • Kerið Crater Lake – A stunning body of water inside a red crater.
  • Skálholt Historical Site – Steeped in religious history
  • Efstidalur Farm – A great place to stop for delicious ice cream
  • Snorkeling in Silfra: Snorkeling between continents in crystal-clear water. Includes a tour with a certified PADI divemaster, all necessary snorkelling gear, Silfra admission fee, and hot chocolate to warm up after the dive. Minimum age 12 years.
  • Snowmobiling on Langjökull: An exhilarating tour on top of a glacier, no previous riding experience needed. Included is a one-hour snowmobile ride with a guide and use of overalls. Two people share a snowmobile and the driver needs to bring their driving licence. Age limit for passenger is 8 years.
  • 2 Hour Horse Riding Tour: Meet the friendly Icelandic Horse. Includes 1-1.5 hour guided horseback ride with a specially trained guide. Use of riding helmets, boots & rain wear. Minimum age is 8 years.
Skogafoss waterfall Iceland

Day 3 – Adventures in South Iceland

On today’s journey, you’ll see glittering glaciers, silvery waterfalls and a black sand beach.

You can, however, start your day with a morning hike on top of Sólheimajökull Glacier. You’ll meet your guide at the base of the glacier, and they will lead you up, passing blue crevasses and deep glacier moulins.

You can also join an afternoon hike at Skaftafell, a nature reserve in south-east Iceland. There, you’ll get a fantastic view of Iceland’s tallest peaks, the stunning flora of Sólheimajökull and the surrounding black sand deserts.

Another option today is to visit an ice cave. Ice caves usually flood in the springtime, making them inaccessible in the summer. Still, the Katla ice cave stays frozen throughout the year. On an ice cave tour, you can enter the cave with a professional guide, seeing the blue ice which is streaked with black ash from past volcanic eruptions.

You will then reach the stunning Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon and the nearby Diamond Beach. At the lagoon, enormous icebergs float on a bright blue lake while seals swim around them. The bergs sometimes wash up on shore at a nearby black sand beach where they glisten like diamonds in the sunlight.

If you wish to get a better look at the icebergs and the seals, you can opt for a boat ride on the lagoon. You have two boat options: a speedy Zodiac boat tour, perfect for thrill-seekers and those who want to get really close to the bergs, and a slower amphibian boat tour; great for families and photographers.

You’ll end the day at a countryside hotel nestled under Vatnajökull, Europe’s largest glacier.

  • Seljalandsfoss Waterfall – A high but narrow cascade which falls over a cave in which you can enter.
  • Skógafoss Waterfall – Much wider and more powerful than its cousin Seljalandsfoss but equally as beautiful.
  • Eyjafjallajökull Glacier – One of Iceland’s smaller ice caps but it covers an active volcano
  • Reynisfjara Black Sand Beach – A gorgeous volcanic beach
  • Vík Village – Located by Reynisfjara beach, a great place to stop for lunch
  • Skaftafell Nature Reserve – A luscious area, nestled under Vatnajökull, Europe’s largest glacier.
  • Svartifoss Waterfall – A stunning cascade surrounded by cliffs of black basalt columns.
  • Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon – A stunning, blue water filled with enormous icebergs which have broken off a nearby glacier.
  • Diamond Beach – A black sand beach where icebergs that have washed up on shore glisten like precious stones.
  • Katla Ice Cave: Visit an authentic ice cave in a glacier that covers an active volcano! Don’t worry, all volcanoes in Iceland are monitored so this is perfectly safe. Includes a tour with a certified glacier guide and use of all necessary glacier gear such as crampons and helmets. Minimum age is 6 years.
  • Glacier Hike in Skaftafell: Easy glacier hike, suitable for most people. No previous experience needed. Tour includes an English speaking glacier guide, use of helmet, crampons, ice axe and other necessary safety equipment. Minimum age is 8 years.
  • Jökulsárlón Zodiac Boat Tour: Get a front-row seat to see the giant icebergs at Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon. The small Zodiac boat can get closer to the icebergs than the larger amphibian boat, providing you with a unique perspective over the bergs. Includes use of floatation overalls and lifejackets. Minimum age is 10 and children must also be taller than 130 cm (4’3”).
  • Jökulsárlón Amphibian Boat Tour: Sail amongst the enormous icebergs on Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon. This tour is especially suited for families with young children as well as photographers looking for a great shot of the ice. Included is a guided tour in English and use of lifevest. No age limit.
Berufjörður fjord in the east of Iceland offers breathtaking views

Day 4 -The Remote East Iceland

Start your day by visiting the beautiful Stokksnes Peninsula where the mighty Mt. Vestrahorn watches over the surrounding black sand beaches.

You will then drive the winding roads of East Iceland, stopping at one or two of the charming villages found there. You can also stop at Vök Baths, a new spa which sits on the banks of Urriðavatn Lake. There you can soak in the geothermal water and admire the beautiful scenery of East Iceland.

Another adventure possible in East Iceland is a thrilling ATV ride through Hallormsstaðaskógur, Iceland’s largest forest. While traversing rough tracks, crossing small streams and dirt puddles, you’ll get to see some of the East’s most stunning landscapes, including the beautiful Lake Lagarfljót.

Before finding your accommodation in or near the town of Egilsstaðir, you can visit the beautiful Hengifoss Waterfall. The cliffs of this stunning cascade are made of black basalt rocks and layers of red clay which are sandwiched between, giving the waterfall its unusual look.

  • Stokksnes Peninsula where black sand beaches make for a perfect photography subject along with Mt. Vestrahorn
  • Djúpivogur – A charming village in East Iceland over which the majestic Mt. Búlandstindur looms.
  • Hallormsstaðaskógur Forest – Sits on the banks of Lake Lagarfljót
  • Egilsstaðir – East Iceland’s largest settlement and the area’s nerve centre
  • Hengifoss Waterfall – One of Iceland’s tallest waterfalls at 128 metres high
  • Vök Nature Baths: Vök Nature Baths are surrounded by nothing but the untouched nature of East Iceland. Ticket includes entry to the baths and a tisane brewed from the spring water and local herbs at the infusion bar. Bring with you a swimsuit and a towel but those can also be rented onsite. No minimum age.
  • ATV Tour in East Iceland: Race through Hallormsstaðaskógur Forest on a 4×4 ATV. Traverse on rugged tracks while taking in the exceptional views of East Iceland. Warm overalls, helmets, balaclavas and gloves are provided, but please wear warm base layers as well as good shoes. Minimum age is 17 for riders, and they must hold a valid driving licence. However, children over the age of 8 can ride as passengers.
Dettifoss waterfall is the second most powerful waterfall in Europe

Day 5 – Visiting Dettifoss, the Prometheus Waterfall

Today, you’ll head North, and visit three of the attractions that make up the Diamond Circle, North-Iceland’s answer to the Golden Circle. You will start by visiting the stunning Dettifoss Waterfall, made famous in the opening shot of the Ridley Scott movie, Prometheus. Then it is off to the beautiful canyon Ásbyrgi, believed by Vikings to have been created by Odin’s horse, Sleipnir.

The third attraction today is the charming town of Húsavík. This small settlement is known as the ‘Whale Watching Capital of Iceland’, and today, you can have your very own adventures searching for the gentle giants of the sea.

There are two excursions available; the former one is a classic whale watching tour, perfect for the entire family. The second one is a tour on a rib boat which also includes a spot of puffin watching. These adorable birds make Iceland their home in the summer before departing the country in the autumn.

You can also visit the Geosea Baths in Húsavík. This luxurious spa uses geothermal heat to warm up seawater, which is said to do wonders to your skin. You will have an amazing view of the ocean where you might spot a whale or two.

You will then spend the night in or near Húsavík.

  • Dettifoss Waterfall – Europe’s most powerful waterfall
  • Selfoss Waterfall – Smaller than its neighbour Dettifoss but surrounded by beautiful basalt columns
  • Ásbyrgi Canyon – A dramatic, horseshoe-shaped canyon
  • Húsavík Town – Whale watching capital of Iceland
  • Whale Watching Tour: See the whales in their natural habitat. Includes professionally guided tour and warm, floatable overalls for your safety and comfort. Also included is a second try in case of no sightings. No age limit.
  • Whale and Puffin Watching RIB Boat Tour: Hop aboard a boat and explore the diverse marine life around Iceland. You’ll search for both the mighty whales and the adorable puffins on this tour. Included on this tour is a specialized guide, warm safety overalls and a little surprise from a local winemaker. Minimum age is 7 years.
  • GeoSea Geothermal Sea Baths: Unwind and enjoy the stunning view at GeoSea Geothermal Sea Baths in the town of Húsavík. GeoSea limits the number of guests, allowing for a more peaceful and relaxing experience for those who visit. Bring with you a swimsuit and a towel but those can also be rented onsite. No minimum age.
The waterfall of the gods known as Godafoss between Myvatn and Akureyri in the north of Iceland

Day 6 – The Lunar Landscapes of Lake Mývatn

After breakfast, you will explore the otherworldly area of Lake Mývatn. Here, you’ll find a stunning hot spring inside a cave, a natural maze of lava pillars, a geothermal region filled with steam vents and bubbling mud pools, and Lake Mývatn itself.

Lake Mývatn and its surroundings were created in a series of volcanic eruptions some 2,300 years ago. You can see remnants of these eruptions in the free-standing lava pillars and pseudocraters around the lake. This time of year, the wetlands around the lake are also teeming with birds, and you can spot up to 15 different species there.

After exploring the region to the fullest, you can unwind at the Mývatn Nature Baths. This geothermal spa is a great way to relax after days on the road, and it provides you with a fantastic view of the surrounding volcanic landscape.

Make your way to Akureyri where you will spend the night. We recommend stopping at the stunning waterfall, Goðafoss, which is en route.

  • Lake Mývatn – A beautiful lake with pseudocraters, lava pillars, and rich birdlife
  • Grjótagjá Cave – A bright blue hot spring inside a cave that was used as the love nest of Jon Snow and Ygritte in Game of Thrones
  • Námaskarð Pass – A geothermal area filled with steam vents and bubbling mud pools.
  • Dimmuborgir – A natural labyrinth of lava pillars
  • Goðafoss – A beautiful waterfall which falls down arch-shaped cliffs.
  • Mývatn Nature Baths: Unwind in geothermal water just South of the Arctic Circle. Please bring a swimsuit and a towel. However, you can also rent a towel if you don’t have one with you. Alcoholic beverages available to purchase for those over 20 years of age.

Day 7 – North Iceland In-Depth

Today, you’ll explore the wonders of North Iceland in-depth by driving the mountainous Tröllaskagi peninsula. Here, you’ll find charming fishing villages with an award-winning museum and a stunning infinity pool.

Before you leave Akureyri behind, you will have an opportunity to have one last adventure in this vibrant town. There are two options available; the first is a whale watching tour, perfect for those who missed out on this wonderful experience yesterday.

The second option is a horse riding tour. Icelandic horses can trace its ancestry from ponies taken to Iceland by Viking settlers, which also explains their small stature. However, they have a large personality which makes all who meet them fall in love with their spirited temperament.

As you travel around the Tröllaskagi region, which is also known as the “Troll Peninsula”, you will have the option to stop by a local brewery and take a bath. Yes, at the Beer Spa, visitors can relax in a tub filled with that amber liquid, while the hops and yeast make your skin silky smooth. It is an experience you won’t soon forget.

At the end of the day, you’ll head to the town of Blönduós where you will spend the night.

  • Tröllaskagi Peninsula – A beautiful area filled with mountains and fjords
  • Siglufjörður – A charming town known for the award-winning Herring Era Museum
  • Hofsós – Small fishing village where you’ll find a stunning, infinity swimming pool with an amazing view
  • Whale Watching tour from Akureyri: Head to sea to search for the gentle whales which make the waters around Akureyri their home. Included is a professionally guided tour and warm, floatable overalls for your safety and comfort. Also included is a second try in case of no sightings. No age limit
  • Beer Spa: Soak in hops and yeast at the Beer Spa! Single and double tubs available. Bathwater is undrinkable, so there is no age limit but 16 years or younger must be accompanied by adults. Beer on draught at every tub for anybody over the age of 20.
  • Horse Riding Tour: Meet the friendly Icelandic Horse. Includes 1-1.5 hour guided horseback ride with a specially trained guide. Use of riding helmets, boots & rain wear. Minimum age is 8 years.
Kirkjufell mountain on the Snæefellsnes peninsula in the west of Iceland.

Day 8 – The Wonders of the Snæfellsnes Peninsula

Now it is time to explore the magical Snæfellsnes Peninsula. Watching over your journey today is the mighty Snæfellsjökull, a glacier topped volcano which is believed by many to be a great source of mystical energy.

The area is characterised by desolate lava strewn fields, tall mountains, and countless streams and waterfalls. You will also see some wildlife there; horses and sheep roam the grounds, and the coast is teeming with birds which make the jagged, volcanic rocks their home.

If you wish to get a closer look at the birdlife of the Snæfellsnes Peninsula, you can join a Viking Sushi Boat Tour from Stykkishólmur town. Kittiwakes, fulmars, shags, and adorable puffins can all be found around the small island which dot the ocean just offshore. The highlight of the tour, however, is when the bounty of the sea is brought up, and guests get to try fresh scallops and sea urchins straight from the ocean.

Another ocean-option available today is a whale watching tour from Ólafsjörður. Breiðafjörður bay offers the best chance in Iceland to see two of the sea’s top predators: sperm whales and orcas, also known as killer whales.

You will end the day at accommodations on the Snæfellsnes Peninsula.

  • Stykkishólmur – A charming town and a great stop for lunch breaks
  • Kirkjufell Mountain – A pyramid-shaped mountain, used as a backdrop in the popular TV show Game of Thrones.
  • Djúpalónssandur Black Pebble Beach – To get to this hauntingly beautiful beach, you have to walk through a natural maze of lava rocks.
  • Lóndrangar – A pair of rock stacks which protrude from the ocean, a great place to go birdwatching.
  • Arnarstapi – A tiny village with a stunning pier and coastline. A path from there leads to another town, Hellnar, and the route makes for a great hiking trip.
  • Búðarkirkja Church – This jet-black church makes for a fantastic photographic stop with the Snæfellsjökull Glacier in the background.
  • Ytri Tunga – A white sand beach (a rarity in Iceland) known for its massive seal colony.
  • Whale Watching Tour – Ólafsvík: Two of the ocean’s top predators, sperm whales and orcas (also known as killer whales), make the waters around Snæfellsnes Peninsula their home. That means this your best chance to spot them while in Iceland. Dress warmly and bring a hat, scarf and gloves.
  • Viking Sushi Boat Tour: Head to sea on a Viking adventure! From Stykkishólmur town, you’ll board a boat which will take you around the countless islands found in Breiðafjörður Bay. Keep an eye out for birds such as fulmars and adorable puffins. The highlight of the tour is when the crew pull up the nets and allow guests to try out fresh scallops and sea urchins. Bring warm clothes. No minimum age.
Hraunfossar waterfall with turquoise glacial water from Langjökull forming the Hvítá river

Day 9 – West Iceland Adventures

Now it is time to head back to Reykjavík. However, you will first explore the wonders of West Iceland before you reach the capital. You’ll see geometric cliffs, stunning waterfalls, and the most powerful hot spring in Europe.

If you wish, you can pepper the day with an underground adventure. There are three unique options available today; the first one is a visit to one of the largest lava caves in the world, Víðgelmir. There, you’ll get to follow the path hot magma created a thousand years ago to see the bright colours found deep underground.

The second option is to explore inside a glacier. The Ice Cave Tunnels in Langjökull effortlessly combine a man-made structure with the beauty of the Icelandic nature. The tunnels lead to several different rooms, including a chapel, and provide visitors with a unique opportunity to explore deep inside a glacier, something which is usually only reserved for scientists.

Your last option begins in Reykjavík city. There, you will board a bus which will take you to Þríhnjúkagígur, an inactive volcano in which you will descend. Strapped in a harness and equipped with a helmet, you’ll be lowered into the caldera in an open lift. The journey down will take around five minutes. Afterwards, you get to roam around inside the volcano before being hoisted up again.

You will then head to your hotel in Reykjavík. The midnight sun keeps the city alive well into the night, so make use of it and enjoy your last night in Iceland exploring the capital’s active nightlife.

  • Gerðuberg Cliffs – A large, natural wall made of hexagonal basalt cliffs
  • Reykholt Village – Perfect for those wanting to learn about Norse mythology and Icelandic history.
  • Hraunfossar & Barnafoss – Two stunning but vastly different waterfalls
  • Deildartunguhver – Europe’s most powerful hot spring
  • Langjökull Ice Cave Tunnels: Step inside Iceland’s second-largest glacier. The man-made tunnels provide visitors with the unique opportunity to explore deep inside the heart of an ice cap. Included is a guided tour, transportation from the base camp up the glacier, and free wifi on the glacier shuttle so you can Instagram your photos right away! No age limit.
  • Viðgelmir Lava Cave: One of the largest caves in Iceland. Tour includes an English speaking guide and use of caving equipment such as a helmet and headlamp. No age limit.
  • Inside the Volcano: Descend into the magma chamber of a 4,000 year old volcano. To get to the volcano, you have to be able to hike for 45-50 on uneven surface. All safety gear is provided as well as Icelandic meat soup to warm you up after the trip (vegetarian options available). Minimum age is 12 years.
Women in the silky blue waters of the blue lagoon in Iceland with smoke in the background

Day 10 – Goodbye to Iceland

Now it is time to pack your bags and return to Keflavík Airport.

If your flight leaves in the afternoon or evening, you will have some time to explore Reykjavík before you go. On top of Skólavörðuhæð hill stands the Reykjavík landmark, Hallgrímskirkja Church. After snapping a few photos of the beautiful building — and perhaps even going to the top — you can walk across the street to the Einar Jónsson sculpture garden. There, you can explore (for free) the works of this famous artist.

If you didn’t have time on your arrival day, you could fit a trip to the Blue Lagoon in before you depart. It is a great way to unwind after days on the road and you’ll arrive at the airport relaxed and well-rested.

Once it’s time to leave, you’ll drive through the lava fields of the Reykjanes Peninsula, return your car at the airport and check in.

Have a great flight home and come back soon!

  • Hallgrímskirkja Church – A beautiful church whose design was inspired by Svartifoss Waterfall.
  • Einar Jónsson Museum & Garden – Many of Einar’s sculptures can be found in the garden, and the entrance to that is free. However, there is a fee for the museum which is located inside Iceland’s first art museum.
  • Laugavegur Shopping Street – Filled with boutiques, restaurants, cafes, and bars.
  • Harpa Concert Hall – A stunning glass building which sits by the ocean
  • Blue Lagoon Comfort Entrance: Includes entrance to the Blue Lagoon, silica mud mask, use of towel and 1st drink of your choice.
  • Blue Lagoon Premium Entrance: Includes entrance to the Blue Lagoon, silica mud mask, use of towel, 1st drink of your choice, second mask of choice, slippers, use of bathrobe, table reservation at Lava Restaurant, and sparkling wine if dining.
  • Whales of Iceland: Whales of Iceland is the largest whale exhibition in Europe. The display features life-size models of 23 whale species found in Icelandic waters, as well as interactive information stands that help enhance the experience and educate visitors. Suitable for all ages.
  • Fly over Iceland: Soar over the entire island, seeing Iceland’s most spectacular sceneries with the latest in simulated flight ride technology. FlyOver Iceland will allow you to virtually soar over Iceland’s most iconic landscapes, while special effects — including wind, mist, scent and motion — help create the illusion of flight. Children need to be at least 102 cm (3’4″) to participate.

Accommodation

You’ll have a choice of three accommodations levels. See details about each one in the boxes below. All accommodations for this tour have been hand-picked by our local travel experts.

For budget-level, single rooms will be allocated to bookings for one person.  Shared twin/double or triple room(s) will be arranged for two or more people. Groups with an odd number of participants will be allotted a single room in quality-level. Children and teenagers will be arranged in the same room as their parents. Additional cost may occur if additional room(s) is needed.

Please keep in mind that hotel quality in Iceland varies between regions and that not all locations offer quality-level accommodations. At those particular locations, comfort level accommodations will be arranged, which has already been calculated in the upgraded price. We do our best to accommodate special requests, but additional costs may incur. 

Budget

Nice and comfortable rooms with shared bathroom facilities and shower located in farmhouses, guesthouses or hostels, in good locations with breakfast included. An example of this in Reykjavík would be Kex Hostel. 

Comfort

Comfortable rooms in three-star hotels or quality guesthouses, centrally located, very close to popular attractions. Private bathroom and breakfast included. An example of this in Reykjavík would be Fosshotel Rauðará. 

Quality

Rooms in four-star hotels or superior rooms in quality three-star hotels at fantastic locations near popular attractions. Private bathroom and breakfast is included. An example of this in Reykjavík would be Icelandair Hotel Marina. 

Car

You’ll have a choice of three options for your rental car. See details for each option in the boxes below. We only work with highly reputable dealerships, ensuring you a smooth ride throughout your holiday.

The vehicles for all levels are current models, no older than two years. They all come standard with a medium protection package including CDW (Collision damage waiver), GP (Gravel Protection), Super Collision Damage Waiver (SCDW), Personal Accident Insurance (PAI) and a Theft Waiver (THW). They also come equipped with free Wi-Fi with 3GB total. You will also get 24-hour roadside emergency services from the car rental agency. In the wintertime, all cars have winter tyres.

The driver must hold a valid driving licence which they have had for at least 12 months before the date of the rental. Age requirement varies for each level, and you can find more information on that in the boxes below.  

Please note that off-road driving is illegal in Iceland.

Budget 2WD

2WD vehicle such as a VW Golf, good for city driving and shorter trips. Fits up to 5 travellers & light luggage. No Highland capabilities. Driver must be at least 20 year old.

Comfort 4x4

4x4 jeep or SUV. Fits up to 5 travellers and 2 large pieces of luggage. Decent for snow and off-asphalt driving. Basic highland capabilities. Driver must be min. 20 years old.

Luxury 4x4

Large 4x4 like a Toyota Land Cruiser. Comfortable up to 5 travellers with 4 large pieces of luggage. Full highland capabilities. Driver must be min. 21 years old.

Map

Good to know

  • Note that the itinerary may have to be rearranged to fit your arrival date and time better.
  • The itinerary is dependent upon road and weather conditions and so it may be altered if conditions are not favourable. This includes optional activities as well. If extreme weather affects your travel plans, you will be notified and we will do our best to assist you with rearranging or booking other activities when applicable.
  • Some optional activities may need a valid driving licence, or you may need to send additional information to your travel agent. For snorkelling, you will need to know how to swim and fill out an online medical document.
  • The weather in Iceland is very unpredictable, even in the summertime. Make sure to be prepared and bring both warm and waterproof clothing.

What to bring

  • Warm and waterproof clothes
  • Good walking/hiking shoes
  • Swimsuit and towel
  • Camera
  • Driving licence

Other tours you might be interested in

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Good to know: In high season, the average cost of a Self-Drive tour is around $250 per person per day
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Terms of Service

For further information, please see our Terms and Conditions.

  • More than 24 hours before scheduled tour departure time: 100% refund. Some day tours might have a different cancellation policy, in which case it will be clearly mentioned in the “Good to know” section of the tour.
  • Less than 24 hours before scheduled tour departure time: 100% cancellation fee. Some day tours might have a different cancellation policy, in which case it will be clearly mentioned in the “Good to know” section of the tour.
  • More than 7 days before scheduled tour arrival date: 15% cancellation fee
  • Less than 7 days before scheduled tour departure date: 75% cancellation fee
  • Less than 72 hours before scheduled tour departure date: 100% cancellation fee
  • 45-30 days before scheduled tour arrival date: 50% cancellation fee
  • 29-15 days before scheduled tour arrival date: 75% cancellation fee
  • 14 days before scheduled tour arrival date: 100% cancellation fee

Scheduled international and domestic flights are non-refundable, be they a part of a package, multi-day tour, or any other service purchasable on the Traveo website, unless the Cancellation insurance is purchased. If a cancellation insurance is purchased, a full refund is given.

If flights are a part of a tour listed as a Day-Tour, standard terms of cancellations of day tours apply to a full refund. For cancelling and refunding of private flights (flights specifically arranged and scheduled for you personally or your group in specific), please contact your service agent.

If your tour is cancelled by the tour provider due to weather conditions or any other environmental circumstances you will always receive a full refund. Exempt from this are any rescheduled second tries of tours which already have been serviced as a first departure. In the case of a volcanic eruption taking place on Icelandic soil stopping you from getting to Iceland, you will also receive a full refund on all products booked on Traveo.

All booking change requests must be made via email by the person who submitted the original booking request.

Changing the number of people in a booking to a smaller number is considered cancellation for the change in number of participants.

  • Packages: 

For multi-day tours and packages, all requests for changes must be made minimum 7 days in advance. Please note that we might not be able to fulfil your changed requirements due to lack of availability, though we will always do our best, and do offer alternative options.

Depending on how far in advance a tour package has been booked and when changes to a booking are requested, an administrative fee of 5000 ISK may be charged each day/night of the itinerary that is modified. Additional supplier costs may still apply depending on the changes requested.

For bookings made within 60 days of arrival, changes can be made without incurring the administrative fee until services have been confirmed and the travel documents have been issued. However, for bookings made 30 days or less before arrival, the administrative fee and any applicable supplier fees may be charged due to the short processing time.

  • Day tours and activities: 

Day tours and activities booked on the Traveo.is that are serviced by independent operators can be changed up to 24 hours before departure.

  • Transfer of bookings: 

A booking may be transferred from one party to another, provided that the new party upholds the terms and conditions of the booking. An administrative fee of 5000 ISK will be charged for the transfer, and both parties must assume joint liability for this fee and any other costs that may be incurred by changes to the booking.

  • Parties travelling together: 

Should two parties wish to book separately but travel together, they should inform travel agents of this prior to booking. If a co-travel request is sent after the booking process has been finished, the change to a package is counted as a tailoring and is subject to a 5000 isk service fee.

  • Significant changes to packages: 

If a package is significantly changed from the original package setup/route as offered on the site, the product will be considered to be a tailored tour and might be subject to a 15% service fee of the total price of the package. This does not apply to added nights at the end or at the beginning of a package as this does not change the original package setup/route.

For budget-level, single rooms will be allocated to bookings for one person.  Shared twin/double or triple room(s) will be arranged for two or more people. Groups with an odd number of participants will be allotted a single room in quality-level. Children and teenagers will be arranged in the same room as their parents. Additional cost may occur if additional room(s) is needed.

During the booking process you will be able to choose a pickup location and starting time. If you do not show up for the scheduled pickup time and location stated on your booking, your reservation is non-refundable.

If you do not know your pickup location at the time of booking, you can choose to update your pickup location later, up to 24 hours before tour departure. Please call the number listed on your voucher if you do not receive a confirmation of your pickup location.

Traveo cannot be liable to any loss, damage, accidents, injuries, death or sickness during your tour. The same applies for any changes in tour schedule due to weather, strikes or any other force majeure. Tour operators reserve the right to change routes, schedules and itineraries if needed because of weather, road conditions or should the necessity arise because of unforeseen reasons or circumstances.

We advise all travellers to purchase a comprehensive travel insurance to minimize possible losses due to unforeseeable situations during your travel. Traveo does not offer any travel insurance, so please contact your preferred private travel insurance company.

If you have a complaint about any of our partners please contact us at [email protected] and we will protect your rights.