Duration
10 days
Availability
May - September
Difficulty
Easy
Minimum Age
No Age Limit
10 days
May - September
Easy
No Age Limit
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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!
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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 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.
From 204,015 kr. /pp.
Per person based on 4 persons travelling together
(Discounts applied in cart – Amount charged in ISK)
For further information, please see our Terms and Conditions.
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.
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 booked on the Traveo.is that are serviced by independent operators can be changed up to 24 hours before departure.
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.
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.
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.