Snaefellsnes, South Coast & Highlands: 10-Day Winter Road Trip
Duration
10 Days
Availability
Sep - Apr
Difficulty
Easy
Minimum Age
None
Overview
See some of the country’s most spectacular sights, including waterfalls, glaciers, geysers, hot springs, and black sand beaches during this northern lights season. On this tour, you’ll spend 10 days driving around West and South Iceland, discovering something new around every corner. You’ll travel around the Snæfellsnes Peninsula, Golden Circle, and the south coast to Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon. Aside from the beauty of the West and South, you’ll also go on a guided Super Jeep Tour of Þórsmörk Valley in the remote Highland region.
Journey through Iceland and experience its stunning landscape this winter! Book this fantastic 10-day Self-Drive Tour today!
- Enjoy the freedom and flexibility of driving yourself around West and South Iceland, allowing you to explore at your own pace
- Customize your tour by choosing your level of accommodation and vehicle, ensuring a comfortable and personalized experience
- Enhance your adventure by adding on extra activities such as visiting the Blue Lagoon, glacier hiking, or exploring a blue ice cave
- Get off the beaten path and explore the remote Highland region with a guided Super Jeep Tour of Þórsmörk Valley
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
- Super Jeep Tour to Þórsmörk Valley
- 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
Day 1 – Welcome to Iceland
On your first day in Iceland, you will pick up your rental vehicle and make your way across the lava fields of the Reykjanes Peninsula to the capital city, Reykjavík. After finding your accommodation, explore this world’s northernmost capital. We recommend that you take a stroll in the downtown area and visit the beautiful Hallgrímskirkja Church, walk down Laugavegur Shopping Street, and see the multi-colored facade of Harpa Concert Hall.
Highlights:
- Reykjavík
- Harpa Concert Hall
- Hallgrímskirkja Church
- Laugavegur Shopping Street
Optional Activities
- 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.
Day 2 – The Mystical Snaefellsnes Peninsula
Today, it is time to leave the city behind and head to the beautiful wintry countryside of West Iceland. Your destination is the Snæfellsnes Peninsula, a 90-km stretch of land filled with fantastic attractions. Explore the black church of Búðarkirkja, Djúpalónssandur Beach, and the majestic Mt. Kirkjufell before heading to Borgarnes Town, where you’ll spend the night.
Highlights:
- Búðakirkja Church
- Djúpalónssandur Beach
- Kirkjufell Mountain
- Snæfellsjökull Glacier
Optional Activities
- There are no optional activities for this day
Day 3 – West Iceland’s Waterfalls & Hot Springs
Today, you’ll explore the wonders of West Iceland. Cross snowy farmlands on your way to one of the most historical sites in the country, Reykholt. From there, head to Hraunfossar and Barnafoss, two vastly different but equally beautiful waterfalls. Continue on to Deildartunguhver Hot Spring before returning to Borgarnes for the night. Remember to check the skies for signs of the northern lights before bed.
Highlights:
- Deildartunguhver Hot Spring
- Hraunfossar Waterfall
- Barnafoss Waterfall
- Reykholt Historical Site
Optional Activities
- 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.
Day 4 – The Famous Golden Circle
Now it’s time to explore the famous Golden Circle. You’ll start at Þingvellir National Park, the birthplace of Iceland’s democracy and home to tectonic boundaries. From there, you’ll see the bubbling mud pools and erupting geysers at Geysir Geothermal Area. Lastly, you’ll visit the majestic Gullfoss Waterfall. At the end of the day, you’ll head to your accommodation in or near Hvolsvöllur Town in South Iceland.
Highlights:
- Þingvellir National Park
- Geysir Geothermal Area
- Gullfoss Waterfall
Optional Activities
- 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.
Day 5 – Super Jeep Tour to Thorsmork Valley
Today is a day of adventure! You will head out into the uninhabited Highland region of Iceland. A guide will pick you up in a super jeep, a large 4×4 vehicle customized to drive up the rough and rugged terrain of the Highlands. Once in Þórsmörk, you’ll explore the valley on foot, seeing glaciers and frozen rivers. At the end of the day, the guide will drop you off back at Hvolsvöllur.
Highlights:
- Icelandic Highlands
- Þórsmörk Valley
- Mýrdalsjökull Glacier
- Gígjökull Glacier
Optional Activities
- There are no optional activities for this day
Day 6 – South Coast Waterfalls, Glaciers & Beaches
On this day, you will explore the beauty of Iceland’s southern coastline. The Ring Road hugs the shore for a few miles, and you’ll see majestic glaciers in the North and the wild Atlantic Ocean to the South. You’ll stop at two stunning waterfalls, Seljalandsfoss and Skógafoss, the black sand beach of Reynisfjara, and the charming town of Vík before retiring at your accommodations in Kirkjubæjarklaustur Town.
Highlights:
- Seljalandsfoss Waterfall
- Skógafoss Waterfall
- Reynisfjara Black Sand Beach
- Vík Village
Optional Activities
- Glacier Hiking on Sólheimajökull Glacier: A fun and easy glacier hike. 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.
- Snowmobiling on Sólheimajökull Glacier: Race across a glacier on a snowmobile. No prior experience needed and all you have to bring are warm clothes and good shoes. Use of overalls, helmets and balaclavas are included. Two people share a snowmobile, and the driver needs to bring their driving licence. Age limit for passengers is 5 years.
Day 7 – Vatnajokull National Park
On today’s journey, you’ll drive to Vatnajökull National Park, named after Europe’s largest glacier. Outdoor enthusiasts can stop at Skaftafell Nature Reserve for a hike amongst the trees and black sands. You’ll then drive under the mighty Vatnajökull until you reach the beautiful Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon and Diamond Beach. Spend another night at Kirkjubæjarklaustur.
Highlights:
- Skaftafell Nature Reserve
- Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon
- Diamond Beach
- Vatnajökull Glacier
Optional Activities
- 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.
- Ice Caving in Vatnajökull: Explore a cave in Europe’s largest glacier. Includes a tour with a certified glacier guide and all necessary glacier gear such as crampons and helmets. Minimum age is 8 years.
Day 8 – Hidden Gems of the South Coast
Return to Reykjavík along the Ring Road. If you wish, you can stop at any of the sites you’ve explored in the previous days. Alternatively, you can explore some lesser-known spots on the south coast. These include Hjörleifshöfði Cape, also known as “Yoda Cave,” Kerið Crater Lake, and the charming town of Selfoss. Before reaching Reykjavík, check the skies for signs of the northern lights.
Highlights:
- Hjörleifshöfði Cape
- Selfoss Town
- Kerið Crater Lake
- Faxi Waterfall
Optional Activities
- ATV tour on Black Beach: Drive across black sand beaches, glacial streams, and rugged hills to the DC3 Plane Crash on this thrilling Quad Bike Tour from South Iceland’s Myrdalsjokull Glacier.
- Secret Lagoon: Unwind in the warm, geothermal waters of the Secret Lagoon. The natural hot springs are located only a short distance from Iceland’s famous Golden Circle, providing a relaxing respite for weary travellers. Swimsuit and towel can be rented onsite if you do not have your own. Snacks and drinks are also available for purchase.
Day 9 – Exploring Reykjavik
Today, you’ll explore the wonders of the world’s northernmost capital, Reykjavík. In the downtown area, you’ll find countless shops, boutiques, restaurants, and cafés. There are also many museums and galleries, as well as a swimming pool. A short drive away is a plethora of natural attractions. Should you need inspiration on what to do today, you can always contact your local, personal travel advisor.
Highlights:
- Reykjavík’s Downtown District
- Laugardalur Valley
- Rauðhólar Hills
- Sun Voyager
Optional Activities
- Reykjavik Summit Helicopter Tour: Get a birds-eye view of the city. Included is a helicopter ride over the city of Reykjavík and a landing on a nearby mountain. Minimum age is 12 years.
- 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.
- 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.
Day 10 – Departure
On your last day in Iceland, you’ll bid farewell to this extraordinary country. If you have an afternoon or an evening flight, you can explore the city a little before you journey across the lava fields of Reykjanes Peninsula to the airport. Alternatively, you can stop at the Blue Lagoon and arrive relaxed and rejuvenated for your flight back home.
Highlights:
- Old Harbour
- Tjörnin Lake
- City Hall
- Reykjanes Peninsula
Optional Activities
- 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.
Accommodation
You’ll have a choice of three accommodation levels. See details about each one in the boxes below. All accommodations for this tour have been hand-picked by our local travel experts.
Please keep in mind that hotel quality in Iceland varies between regions and that not all locations offer quality-level accommodations
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 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 tires.
Compact 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.
Large 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
- Please note that the Northern Lights are a natural phenomenon, so sightings cannot be guaranteed. However, outside of Reykjavík, you will be staying at rural hotels which increases your chances of seeing them when the weather allows.
- 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 be 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 snorkeling, you will need to know how to swim and fill out an online medical document.
What to bring
- Warm and waterproof clothes
- Good winter shoes that have soles with a good grip or crampons
- Swimsuit and towel
- Camera
- Driving licence
