Self-Drive Tours in Iceland
There is no better way to experience Iceland than setting out on your own journey. A self-drive tour lets you explore the island’s varied landscapes at your own pace, from volcanic terrain and sweeping lava fields to black sand beaches and peaceful fjords.
Living here in Iceland, we know how rewarding it is to travel the country independently. Over the years, we have designed itineraries highlighting famous landmarks and quiet corners that often go unnoticed. With each package, you have the chance to see beloved routes such as the Golden Circle and the South Coast while also discovering hidden hot springs in the Highlands, remote valleys in the Westfjords, and traditional fishing villages in the North.
Your trip includes a comfortable, reliable rental car and overnight stays in carefully selected accommodations suited to your travel style, expectations, and budget. All the practical details are taken care of before you arrive, leaving you free to enjoy the road and the scenery without worrying about planning along the way.
Explore Iceland at Your Own Pace
Personalize Your Journey: Custom Self-Drive Tours in Iceland
Want more adventure? Customize your trip with optional day tours like glacier hikes, whale watching, ice cave visits, volcano trips, or boat rides through glacier lagoons. Whether you’re chasing the Northern Lights, diving into the stunning magma chamber, or soaking in a natural hot spring under the midnight sun, our self-drive tours are designed to help you experience Iceland in a personal and unforgettable way.
We know that no two travelers are the same. That’s why we work closely with you to shape every detail of your journey to fit your interests.
Because we live here, we can point you toward places most tourists miss to fulfill your perfect vacation in Iceland. Our team is passionate about showing you the real island, far beyond the typical tourist trail. We also know the best places to go if you want to travel at a slower pace or give yourself a great retreat during the holiday.
Let us help you create the Iceland trip you dream of: completely customized, seamless, and unforgettable!
Summer Self-Drive Tours in Iceland
Summer in Iceland is the perfect time to rent a car and explore the country. With nearly endless daylight, the roads are open, the landscapes are green, and the atmosphere is filled with life. A self-drive tour in summer gives you the opportunity to create unforgettable memories while traveling through some of the most breathtaking scenery in the world.
There is no need to add more: driving across Iceland in the summer feels special! The midnight sun lets you explore late into the evening, whether you want to stand by a roaring waterfall, walk along a black sand beach, or sit quietly in a geothermal hot spring surrounded by mountains. The extra daylight means you never feel rushed, and you can take time to enjoy the smaller details, like stopping at a family-run café in the countryside or pulling over to admire a herd of Icelandic horses.
Each summer self-drive tour includes a reliable rental car, pre-arranged accommodations, and an itinerary that balances famous sights with hidden gems. Choosing a summer self-drive tour is not only about convenience and milder weather. It is about experiencing Iceland the way locals enjoy it. When you feel free to explore, this season will be the most rewarding time to travel across the island.
Winter Self-Drive Tours in Iceland
A winter self-drive tour lets you see the island in its most enchanting light with snow-covered landscapes, frozen waterfalls, and the quiet beauty of long, crisp days. Fewer visitors mean you’ll enjoy popular sites in peace, and with the Northern Lights dancing above, the season becomes nothing short of magical.
Our winter self-drive tours are crafted to accommodate the colder months. You’ll visit iconic spots like the Golden Circle, Skógafoss, and Seljalandsfoss, transformed into icy masterpieces. The winter light brings a soft, otherworldly glow to the scenery, turning familiar views into something new and unforgettable.
Winter also unlocks unique experiences you can’t have at any other time of year. Step into a natural ice cave beneath Vatnajökull glacier, spend an hour or two in the local geothermal pool, ride a snowmobile across vast snowy plains, or explore the icy shoreline of Jökulsárlón glacier lagoon. The shorter days are balanced by unforgettable moments, like watching the Aurora Borealis shimmer across the night sky.
Your winter self-drive tour in Iceland includes a 4×4 vehicle, pre-booked winter-ready accommodations, and a custom itinerary for safety and scenic beauty. Let us know what you are looking for! With our local knowledge, you’ll stay ahead of changing weather and enjoy the very best of Iceland’s winter wonderland.
Most Common Questions About Self-Drive Tours in Iceland
What is a self-drive tour in Iceland?
A self-drive tour in Iceland is a pre-planned road trip where you drive your rental car and follow a custom itinerary. It typically includes accommodation, a rental car, a travel plan, and 24/7 emergency support, giving you the freedom to explore at your own pace while benefiting from local expertise.
Is Iceland safe for self-driving tours?
Yes, Iceland is one of the safest countries in the world for self-driving. Roads are generally well-maintained, and crime is extremely low. However, stay alert to changing weather conditions, especially in winter, and check daily road updates here.
What's the best time of year for a self-drive tour in Iceland?
The best time for self-drive tours is from May to September when roads are clear, highland routes are open, and the weather is more stable. Winter self-drive trips are possible but require extra planning and a 4×4 vehicle due to snow and limited daylight.
Do I need a 4x4 vehicle for a self-drive tour in Iceland?
A 4×4 is recommended if you’re traveling during winter or planning to explore the highlands or F-roads (mountain routes). For summer road trips along the Ring Road or Golden Circle, a standard vehicle is often sufficient, depending on your route.
Can I drive in Iceland with a foreign driver's license?
Yes, most foreign visitors can use their valid driver’s license from their home country. If the license is not in Latin script (e.g., Chinese or Arabic), an international driving permit is required. Drivers must also be at least 20 years old to rent a car in Iceland.
What are the most popular self-drive routes in Iceland?
Top self-drive routes include the Ring Road (Route 1) for a full-circle tour of the island, the Golden Circle for a short escape from Reykjavík, and the Snæfellsnes Peninsula, South Coast, and East Fjords for more focused adventures. Each offers unique landscapes and hidden gems.
How long should a self-drive tour in Iceland be?
A self-drive tour can last anywhere from 3 days to 14 days or more, depending on your itinerary. A 7 to 10-day trip is ideal for covering the Ring Road, while a 3- to 5-day trip works well for regions like the South Coast or Golden Circle.
Are accommodations included in self-drive tour packages?
Yes, our self-drive tour packages in Iceland include pre-booked accommodations, often with breakfast included. Lodging ranges from guesthouses and boutique hotels to countryside hotels, all selected based on comfort, location, and reliability.
What's included in a typical self-drive tour in Iceland?
A standard self-drive package usually includes a rental car, accommodation, a detailed itinerary, GPS or digital maps, and emergency support. Some tours can also include Wi-Fi in a rental vehicle or admission to popular attractions, such as the Blue Lagoon.
Do I need to book a self-drive tour in advance?
Yes, especially in the summer months (June–August) when availability is limited. Booking early ensures you get the best accommodation options and preferred vehicle type. Even in the shoulder seasons, it’s wise to reserve at least a few weeks ahead.
Can I customize a self-drive tour itinerary in Iceland?
Absolutely. We offer custom self-drive itineraries, allowing you to choose specific regions, activities, and trip lengths. Whether you’re chasing waterfalls, photographing landscapes, or seeking solitude, the itinerary can be tailored to your interests.
What should I watch out for when driving in Iceland?
Be cautious of changing weather, gravel roads, one-lane bridges, and wandering sheep. Avoid off-road driving, it’s both illegal and harmful to the environment. Also, always keep fuel levels up in rural areas, as gas stations can be far apart in some regions.
Can I visit the Icelandic highlands on a self-drive tour?
Yes, but only during the summer (usually mid-June to early September) and with a 4-wheel drive vehicle. The highlands offer raw, untouched beauty, including destinations like Landmannalaugar, Askja, and Þórsmörk, but they require good planning and awareness of F-road conditions.
Are there winter self-drive tours in Iceland?
Yes, winter self-drive tours are available and often include Northern Lights hunting, ice cave tours, and frozen waterfalls. A 4×4 car with winter tires is essential, and itineraries are designed with shorter driving distances and flexible plans to accommodate weather conditions.