9 Days Around Iceland: An Authentic Self-Drive Ring Road Vacation
Exploring Iceland on your own terms is one of life's great options for an unforgettable vacation. The 9-Day Self-Drive Classic Circle T...
Adventure 8-Day Highland Road & Hiking Trip in Iceland
This tour offers an unforgettable trip through Iceland’s iconic landscapes, along with the freedom and flexibility of a self-drive tour. It allows you to truly embrace the spirit of adventure and uncover parts of Iceland that many visitors never get the chance to see.
ID: INTSDA2
Description
Your journey begins with your arrival at Keflavík International Airport, followed by a scenic drive to Reykjavík. Spend your first evening in the capital, enjoying its lively yet cozy atmosphere, perhaps with a walk along the old harbor or a taste of fresh Icelandic seafood. On day two, you set out on the iconic Golden Circle route, visiting the rift valley of Þingvellir National Park, the erupting geysers of Haukadalur, and the thundering Gullfoss waterfall. After a full day of exploring, you head to your accommodation near the quiet town of Hella, surrounded by vast open fields and distant volcanoes.
Day three takes you off the beaten path into the highlands of Landmannalaugar. The drive itself is an adventure, crossing gravel tracks and lava fields, leading to a landscape of rainbow-colored mountains and steaming hot springs. Hiking in Landmannalaugar is a must for those who want to experience the untouched wilderness of Iceland, just as the locals do. After a day of exploration, you return to Hella for a restful evening.
On day four, follow the south coast to visit the postcard-perfect waterfalls Seljalandsfoss and Skógafoss, then continue to the black sand beaches near Vík. The contrast between the icy glaciers, roaring waterfalls, and coastal cliffs is simply stunning. You’ll return to Hella again, maintaining a relaxed and comfortable travel pace.
Day five takes you into Þórsmörk, one of Iceland’s best-kept secrets. Nestled between glaciers, this lush valley offers scenic hiking trails, glacial rivers, and views that few travelers ever get to see. Driving here requires a bit of adventure and care, but the reward is well worth the effort.
On day six, you head north into West Iceland, where you’ll visit the lava waterfalls of Hraunfossar and Barnafoss before spending the evening in the historic village of Reykholt. Surrounded by geothermal areas and ancient stories, this region boasts a quiet charm that is largely unknown to outsiders.
The seventh day brings you to the Snæfellsnes Peninsula, a region we Icelanders often call “Iceland in Miniature.” Here, you’ll encounter black beaches, basalt cliffs, fishing villages, and the mystical Snæfellsjökull glacier. As the day winds down, you make your way back to Reykjavík for your final night in the city.
Your self-drive tour concludes on day eight with a drive back to Keflavík Airport, taking with you memories of volcanoes, waterfalls, and highland adventures. This tour is perfect for independent travelers who want the flexibility of driving themselves while experiencing Iceland through the eyes of those who know it best.
OPENING SEASON AND ACCESS:
During summer, it is possible to drive 4×4 jeeps to Landmannalaugar along the roads Fjallabaksleið nyrðri (F208) or Dómadalsleið (F225). It is entirely up to the Icelandic Road Authority to decide when these roads open, depending on snow conditions and how the roads are holding up after the winter. On average, one can assume to be able to drive to Landmannalaugar from June 25 until September 15.
Buses to Þórsmörk start running: similar dates.
Day 1: Arrival day, Keflavík Airport - Reykjavík
After picking up your rental car, you’ll have the freedom to begin exploring right away. While Reykjavík is just a short drive away, we always recommend taking the scenic route and spending some time discovering the Reykjanes Peninsula. It’s a place many travelers pass by, but for the locals, it’s a landscape full of character and power.
This region is shaped by volcanic forces and geothermal energy, with lava fields stretching to the horizon and steam rising from the earth. It offers a quieter, more untouched feel than the busier parts of Iceland. A perfect first stop is the world-famous Blue Lagoon, just a short drive from the airport.
You can also drive through Krýsuvík, a place filled with steaming vents, bubbling mud pools, and vibrant geothermal landscapes. Another iconic natural attraction is Gunnuhver, Iceland’s largest mud spring, named after a ghost said to haunt the area. The thick steam and dramatic surroundings make it a striking spot to experience the raw power of nature.
Don’t miss a visit to Reykjanesviti, Iceland’s oldest lighthouse, perched on the edge of towering cliffs with sweeping views of the Atlantic Ocean. The coastline here is rugged and wild, shaped by centuries of volcanic and oceanic forces. With its lava formations, volcanic craters, and dramatic cliffs, the Reykjanes Peninsula offers a powerful welcome to the land of fire and ice.
When you’re ready, make your way to Reykjavík. The capital welcomes you with its vibrant houses, lively streets, and laid-back atmosphere. Wander downtown, stop for coffee in one of the city’s many cozy cafés, and explore landmarks like the Hallgrímskirkja church and the Sun Voyager sculpture by the sea.
End your first day in Iceland with a delicious meal featuring local seafood or lamb, and settle into your hotel in Reykjavík. After a day of discovery and relaxation, you’ll be ready for the adventures that await. Starting your journey with the quiet beauty of the Reykjanes Peninsula and the charm of Reykjavík sets the perfect tone for the days ahead.
1 night accommodation in 3* Fosshotel Baron or similar. Standard double room with private facilities, including breakfast.
Suggested itinerary for the day:
Day 2: Reykjavík – Golden Circle – Hella
Your journey continues with a drive from Reykjavík into the Golden Circle, which is one of Iceland’s most celebrated routes and a favorite among both visitors and locals. This day offers a perfect blend of history, geothermal activity, and powerful natural beauty, giving you a true sense of what makes Iceland so unique.
Leaving Reykjavík behind, your first destination is Þingvellir National Park, a place deeply rooted in Icelandic identity. Recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, Þingvellir is where Iceland’s first parliament was founded over a thousand years ago. But it’s not just its historical importance that draws people in. Here, the landscape tells a powerful geological story. You’ll be walking between the North American and Eurasian tectonic plates in a rift valley that’s still slowly pulling apart. Wander along scenic trails, stop by the iconic Almannagjá gorge, and don’t miss the quiet charm of Þingvallakirkja, the small church standing peacefully in the middle of this dramatic terrain.
From there, the road leads to the Geysir geothermal area in Haukadalur, where steam rises from the earth and boiling water bursts into the sky. Strokkur, the most active geyser in the area, erupts every few minutes, often shooting a column of hot water up to 30 meters into the air. It’s a captivating sight, and the surrounding landscape, filled with bubbling mud pots and mineral-rich hot springs, feels almost like stepping onto another planet.
Next, you’ll reach Gullfoss, or the “Golden Falls,” one of Iceland’s most breathtaking waterfalls. Fed by glacial waters from Langjökull, Gullfoss plunges in two powerful tiers into a deep canyon. On sunny days, the mist often creates vivid rainbows arcing through the spray. Take your time walking the paths around the falls for different perspectives, and let the thundering sound of the water immerse you in the raw power of Icelandic nature.
After a full day of exploring the Golden Circle, continue your drive south toward the town of Hella. Nestled between farmlands and mountains, this peaceful village is a relaxing end to the day. Along the way, enjoy sweeping views of glaciers like Eyjafjallajökull and the looming presence of Hekla volcano in the distance, landmarks that remind you how alive this land truly is.
Once you arrive in Hella, settle into your accommodation and take a moment to unwind.
4 nights accommodation in 3* Hotel Hvölsvollur or similar. Standard room with private facilities, including breakfast.
Suggested itinerary for the day:
Day 3: Hella – Landmannalaugar – Hella
Your day begins in the peaceful village of Hella and leads you into one of the most remote and striking areas of Iceland: Landmannalaugar, located in the heart of the Highlands. This region is renowned for its rugged beauty, vibrant rhyolite mountains, and natural hot springs and has long been a favorite destination for locals.
The drive itself is part of the experience. Leaving the paved roads behind, you’ll follow gravel tracks and mountain routes only accessible by 4×4. Along the way, you’ll cross rivers, pass lava fields, and travel through wild, open landscapes shaped by centuries of volcanic activity. This route gives you an authentic taste of Iceland’s untamed interior: quiet, raw, and powerful.
Once you arrive in Landmannalaugar, you’ll find a landscape unlike anywhere else. The mountains seem to glow with shades of red, orange, and green, especially in the soft light of the day. There are several walking routes to choose from, ranging from easy paths through the Laugahraun lava field to longer hikes offering expansive views over the Highlands.
After your hike, you can relax in one of Iceland’s most beautiful natural hot springs. Set against the backdrop of black lava and colorful peaks, the warm water offers a perfect way to ease tired legs and enjoy the quiet atmosphere of this highland oasis.
As the afternoon fades, you’ll drive back to Hella, retracing the same scenic route. The changing light across the landscape brings a new beauty to the return journey. By evening, you’ll be back at your accommodation with the memories of a day spent in one of Iceland’s most unforgettable places.
Suggested itinerary for the day:
Day 4: Hella – Seljalandsfoss – Skogarfoss – Vík – Hella
Day 4 takes you along Iceland’s South Coast, a region known for its mighty waterfalls, black sand beaches, and ancient glaciers. This is a day filled with dramatic scenery and a rare chance to explore an ice cave beneath a volcano.
The day begins with a visit to Seljalandsfoss, one of Iceland’s most photographed waterfalls. The 60-meter drop creates a curtain of water you can walk behind, offering a unique view framed by cliffs and mist. On clear days, sunlight often creates rainbows in the spray.
A short drive brings you to Skógafoss, another of Iceland’s incredible waterfalls. At 25 meters wide and equally tall, it crashes down onto flat ground, sending mist high into the air. You can walk close to the base or climb the staircase to the top for expansive views of the surrounding landscape, including the glaciers and highlands beyond.
At Dyrhólaey, two parking areas provide views of the famous rock arch, but the upper lot on the hill offers the most spectacular vantage point. Turn right onto the bumpy dirt road as you enter the area to reach the top. From here, you’ll also see a lighthouse and enjoy sweeping views westward over an endless stretch of black sand beach. Keep an eye out for seabirds, which often soar and nest along the cliffs during the summer months.
Near the village of Vík, a turnoff from Route 1 leads you past a picturesque church and down to Reynisfjara Beach. This dramatic black sand beach is renowned for its Reynisdrangar basalt columns, towering hexagonal formations rising from the sand.
Walk one to two minutes around the cliffs to the left (facing the ocean) to discover several large sea caves carved by the Atlantic’s relentless waves. Please be cautious here, as the waves can be powerful and unpredictable.
13:00/16:00 – Dragon Glass Katla Ice Cave Super Jeep tour from Vik. Duration: 3 hrs.
Later in the day, you’ll take part in the Katla Ice Cave Tour. Located beneath the Mýrdalsjökull glacier, under the Katla Volcano, the ice caves are shaped by both ice and volcanic activity. Inside, the walls reveal layers of ash and blue glacial ice. The caves change each season, making each visit different. Guided safely through the tunnels, you’ll experience the quiet, frozen world beneath one of Iceland’s most active volcanoes.
After the tour, return to Hella for the night.
Suggested itinerary for the day:
Day 5: Hella – Þórsmörk – Hella
Day 5 takes you off the main roads and deep into one of Iceland’s most remote and breathtaking regions, Þórsmörk. Tucked between glaciers and rugged mountains, this valley is renowned for its stunning scenery.
Your day begins in Hella with an early start and a steady drive into the highlands.
Please note: Entering Þórsmörk and getting to the start of the trails requires you to cross multiple glacier rivers. The best and safest option is to part-drive the off-road route to the national park, then park your car just before the first river crossing (car parking on site) and join one of the daily 4×4 buses (pre-book your bus ticket via the links below). Destination: the main information/base camp in the region: Langidalur.
Thórsmörk summer bus services :
- Reykjavik Excursions Bus 9/9a (Reykjavik-Thórsmörk)
When you arrive in Þórsmörk, the contrast is immediate. Surrounded by glaciers on three sides (Eyjafjallajökull, Tindfjallajökull, and Mýrdalsjökull) the valley is green and sheltered. Birch trees, wildflowers, and winding rivers create a quiet, almost hidden world. There’s a sense of stillness here that’s hard to find elsewhere. The walking trails vary in length and difficulty, so whether you’re up for a short walk or a longer hike, there’s something here for you. Trails lead through canyons, up ridges, and along riverbanks, each turn offering a new view.
Although the well-known Fimmvörðuháls trail begins here, today, it’s about exploring the valley itself. You don’t need to hike far to feel the weight of the place, just being surrounded by glaciers and cliffs is enough to leave a lasting impression. The rivers are clear, the air is fresh, and the land feels far removed from the modern world.
After spending the day in Þórsmörk, you return to Hella by the same mountain roads. The drive back offers a final look at the highland scenery in a different light. Once you’re back, it’s time to rest and take in everything you’ve seen.
Þórsmörk is not just another stop on the map. It’s a place where the natural elements meet in balance: ice, rock, and greenery. For many, it becomes one of the most memorable days of their time in Iceland.
Suggested itinerary for the day:
Day 6: Hella – Hraunfossar – Barnafoss – Húsafell - Reykholt
Day 6 takes you west into a region known for its powerful hot springs, lava fields, and quiet historic sites. The day begins in Hella, and as you drive north, the landscape shifts: open fields give way to darker volcanic ground, and steam rises in the distance as you approach the geothermal heart of West Iceland.
The first stop is Hraunfossar, a unique series of waterfalls where clear water flows out from beneath a lava field and spreads across the rocks into the Hvítá River. The falls aren’t high or loud, but they stretch wide, creating a calm, almost silent flow that stands out in contrast to the rugged terrain. A short walk upstream brings you to Barnafoss, a much narrower and faster-moving waterfall.
From there, the road leads to Húsafell, a quiet place not far from Langjökull glacier. It’s a good spot to stop and stretch your legs, surrounded by low birch trees and lava formations. The area is popular among Icelanders seeking a weekend getaway. On clear days, the glacier is visible in the distance, enhancing the serene atmosphere of the place.
Nearby, you’ll visit Deildartunguhver, the most powerful hot spring in Europe. The water is almost boiling as it rushes from the ground, sending thick steam into the air. This spring’s heat is felt in homes across the region, and its constant flow is a reminder of the energy just beneath the surface.
After seeing the spring, you’ll head to Krauma Spa, where water from Deildartunguhver is mixed with cold spring water to create natural pools of perfect temperature. Admission is included in your tour. The spa is small and peaceful, with several warm pools, a cold plunge, and steam rooms. Surrounded by vast fields and sky, it’s a relaxing place to rest after a day on the road.
The final stop is Reykholt, a small village with a long history. This was once the home of Snorri Sturluson, a 13th-century writer and chieftain known for recording many of the old Norse myths. You can visit the stone pool that he is believed to have used, as well as a cultural center dedicated to his work. Reykholt is quiet, with a strong connection to Iceland’s past.
You’ll stay the night in Reykholt, where the mix of natural energy and history makes for a calm end to the day.
1 night accommodation in 3* Fosshotel Reykholt or similar. Standard room with private facilities, including breakfast.
Suggested itinerary for the day:
Day 7: Reykholt - Snæfellsness Peninsula – Reykjavík
Day 7 begins with an early departure from Reykholt as you make your way toward the Snæfellsnes Peninsula, a region known for its wide variety of landscapes. Often called “Iceland in Miniature,” this part of the country offers a mix of volcanic peaks, glaciers, black sand beaches, lava fields, and rugged coastline, all within a compact area.
Your first stop is Snæfellsjökull National Park. The glacier-capped Snæfellsjökull volcano rises above the surrounding lava plains and can often be seen from a great distance across the region. The glacier has long captured the imagination of Icelanders and visitors alike, and the surrounding area is filled with quiet walking paths and breathtaking views. On calm days, the stillness of the park is striking, broken only by the sound of birds or the wind across the lava fields.
From there, you’ll continue along the coast and pass through small fishing villages such as Arnarstapi and Hellnar. These villages are situated along cliffs formed by the sea and are home to large seabird colonies. In Arnarstapi, you can follow a short path along the cliffs, where the waves have carved arches and columns into the rock. It’s a peaceful stretch of coastline with long views out to sea and a clear view back toward the glacier.
Further west lies Djúpalónssandur, a black pebble beach once used as a landing site by fishermen. Scattered along the coast are the remains of a shipwreck, rusted and broken but still visible. In the sand are lifting stones once used to test the strength of those who worked the sea. The beach is backed by jagged lava formations, giving it a stark, almost otherworldly appearance.
Later in the day, you’ll visit Kirkjufell, one of Iceland’s most recognizable mountains. Its steep, curved shape rises from the landscape, and the nearby waterfall, Kirkjufellsfoss, makes the setting especially photogenic. Even without a camera, the view is worth taking in slowly.
As the afternoon ends, you’ll begin the drive back toward Reykjavík.
1 night accommodation in 3* Fosshotel Baron or similar. Standard double room with private facilities, including breakfast.
Suggested itinerary for the day:
Day 8: Departure day, Reykjavík – Keflavík Airport
Day 8 is your final day in Iceland. After a week of exploring waterfalls, volcanoes, glaciers, and remote valleys, it’s time to make the drive from Reykjavík to Keflavík International Airport. Though your adventure is coming to an end, the road still offers a last look at the landscape that has defined your journey.
If your flight time allows, you may have a moment to stop along the way. The peninsula features several serene and open spaces where you can take a leisurely walk or stand and take in the view. There’s a stillness here that stays with you, a kind of pause before returning to the pace of everyday life.
You’ll return your car and make your way to your flight, carrying memories of vast landscapes, quiet moments, and the clear, sharp air of Iceland. The country leaves a lasting impression, and many who come once find themselves drawn back again. Safe travels, and thank you for making Iceland part of your story.
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