Iceland- Fire and Ice Road Trip

The Ultimate Iceland Road Trip Itinerary: Exploring the Land of Fire and Ice by Car

Iceland is a country that demands to be explored by car. With its otherworldly landscapes, dramatic waterfalls, bubbling hot springs, and sweeping coastal roads, there’s no better way to experience the freedom and beauty of Iceland than with a road trip. From the world-famous Golden Circle to the more remote Westfjords, a self-drive itinerary allows you to set your own pace, stop where you like, and uncover the hidden gems of this spectacular island.

This 7-10 day itinerary will take you through some of Iceland’s most iconic landscapes and lesser-known treasures, ensuring a perfect blend of adventure, relaxation, and natural wonders.

Day 1: Arrival in Reykjavik and Explore the Capital

• Arrive at Keflavik International Airport
• Pick up your rental car: Opt for a 4x4 vehicle if you plan on traveling off the beaten path or during winter months.
• Explore Reykjavik: Spend the day in Iceland’s capital city. Visit Hallgrimskirkja Church, Harpa Concert Hall, and walk around the charming streets of downtown. For a unique cultural experience, explore the National Museum of Iceland to learn about Iceland’s Viking heritage.
• Enjoy local cuisine: Reykjavik is known for its vibrant food scene. Try some traditional Icelandic dishes like lamb stew, Arctic char, or the famous Icelandic hot dog at Bæjarins Beztu.

Day 2: Golden Circle Route

• Distance: 230 km (143 miles)

Start your road trip by driving the famous Golden Circle, which covers three of Iceland’s most popular natural attractions.

• Þingvellir National Park: The birthplace of Iceland’s parliament and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. This park is located on the Mid-Atlantic Ridge where the North American and Eurasian tectonic plates meet.
• Geysir Geothermal Area: Home to the original geyser, this area features active geysers, including Strokkur, which erupts every few minutes, shooting boiling water up to 30 meters (98 feet) into the air.
• Gullfoss Waterfall: One of Iceland’s most famous waterfalls, Gullfoss is a powerful two-tiered cascade that’s particularly stunning on sunny days when rainbows form in the mist.

Optional:

• Secret Lagoon: End the day with a relaxing dip in this geothermal pool, less crowded than the Blue Lagoon and nestled in the Golden Circle area.

Day 3: South Coast – Waterfalls and Black Sand Beaches

• Distance: 250 km (155 miles)

The south coast of Iceland is packed with stunning natural beauty.

• Seljalandsfoss Waterfall: A picturesque waterfall where you can actually walk behind the cascade for a unique perspective.
• Skógafoss Waterfall: One of the largest waterfalls in Iceland, Skógafoss drops 60 meters (197 feet) with an impressive width.
• Sólheimasandur Plane Wreck: A short hike will take you to the famous site of a US Navy plane wreck on a black sand beach, creating an eerie and surreal sight.
• Reynisfjara Black Sand Beach: Known for its black volcanic sand and towering basalt columns, this beach is also a great spot to view the sea stacks of Reynisdrangar.
• Stay in Vik: Overnight in the small coastal village of Vík, the southernmost town in Iceland.

Day 4: Skaftafell National Park and Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon

• Distance: 270 km (168 miles)

• Skaftafell National Park: Located in Vatnajökull National Park, Skaftafell offers excellent hiking trails, including one that leads to the stunning Svartifoss waterfall, surrounded by black basalt columns.

• Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon: A breathtaking lagoon filled with icebergs that have broken off from the nearby Breiðamerkurjökull Glacier. You can even take a boat tour to get up close to the icebergs.

• Diamond Beach: Just across from the lagoon, this beach is scattered with sparkling icebergs that wash up on the black sand shore.

Day 5: East Fjords

• Distance: 280 km (174 miles)

• Drive through the East Fjords: The winding coastal roads of the East Fjords offer some of the most dramatic and isolated landscapes in Iceland. Here, towering mountains meet the sea, and the small fishing villages along the way provide a glimpse into rural Icelandic life.

• Egilsstaðir: Stop in Egilsstaðir, the largest town in eastern Iceland, known for its proximity to Lake Lagarfljót, which is home to a legendary sea monster said to be similar to the Loch Ness monster.

• Stay in Seyðisfjörður: One of the most beautiful towns in the East Fjords, Seyðisfjörður is nestled between steep mountains with colorful houses and a tranquil harbor.

Day 6: Lake Mývatn and Surroundings

• Distance: 165 km (103 miles)

• Dettifoss Waterfall: One of the most powerful waterfalls in Europe, Dettifoss is located in the rugged landscape of Jökulsárgljúfur canyon.

• Hverir Geothermal Area: An otherworldly geothermal area with bubbling mud pots and steaming fumaroles. The smell of sulfur is strong here, but the striking landscape is well worth the visit.

• Lake Mývatn: A stunning lake surrounded by volcanic landscapes, including pseudocraters, lava fields, and hot springs. Don’t miss the striking lava formations at Dimmuborgir and the geothermal baths at Mývatn Nature Baths for a more peaceful alternative to the Blue Lagoon.

• Stay in Akureyri: End the day in Akureyri, Iceland’s second-largest city, located at the base of a beautiful fjord.

Day 7: Northern Iceland – Whale Watching and More

• Distance: 220 km (137 miles)

• Akureyri: Explore the charming streets of Akureyri in the morning, with its botanical garden, unique architecture, and vibrant cafés.

• Whale Watching in Húsavík: Húsavík is known as the whale-watching capital of Iceland, and taking a boat tour to see these magnificent creatures is a must. You can spot minke, humpback, and even blue whales.

• Godafoss Waterfall: On your way back south, visit Godafoss, also known as the "Waterfall of the Gods," with its stunning crescent-shaped cascade.

Day 8: Return to Reykjavik via West Iceland

• Distance: 400 km (248 miles)

• Hraunfossar and Barnafoss Waterfalls: Located in the Borgarfjörður area, these waterfalls offer a unique sight, as Hraunfossar flows out of a lava field and Barnafoss rushes through a narrow gorge.

• Deildartunguhver: Visit Europe’s most powerful hot spring, Deildartunguhver, which supplies hot water to neighboring towns.

• Reykholt: Explore the historical village of Reykholt, once home to the medieval writer Snorri Sturluson.

• Arrive in Reykjavik: Spend your last night in the capital city, enjoying a final dinner and taking in any last sights you missed on Day 1.

Day 9: Departure

• Distance: 50 km (31 miles)

Drive back to Keflavik International Airport for your departure, taking time to reflect on the stunning landscapes and unforgettable experiences you’ve had over the past week.

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This itinerary offers a well-rounded experience of Iceland's most famous sights while also allowing time to explore less-visited areas. Whether you're driving the Ring Road or venturing into more remote regions, Iceland’s landscapes are sure to leave a lasting impression.  Let us plan this trip for you now!