5-Day Self-Drive Tour Included Akureyri, Myvatn, Husavik, Dettifoss

Car pick-up: Akureyri Airport

Tour duration: 5 days

Age limit: No limit

Availability: May – Sept.

Tour type: Self-Drive

This self-drive tour offers a relaxed and rewarding introduction to North Iceland, ideal for travelers who want to explore at their own pace. Starting and ending in Akureyri, the vibrant capital of the north, the journey takes you through regions shaped by volcanic forces, glacial rivers, and a long maritime history.

Over the course of five days, you will travel through the otherworldly Lake Mývatn area, known for its lava fields, geothermal activity, and rich birdlife, and visit Goðafoss, the iconic Waterfall of the Gods, where Icelandic history and natural beauty come together. The route continues along scenic fjords and mountain roads to charming coastal towns such as Húsavík, famous for whale watching, and Siglufjörður, a former herring capital nestled between steep mountains and the sea.

This itinerary blends well-known highlights with quieter, authentic places that offer insight into everyday life in North Iceland. Optional activities such as geothermal bathing, whale watching, or horseback riding allow you to tailor the experience to your interests, whether you seek relaxation, wildlife encounters, or cultural discovery.

Accommodation and car options

This self-drive tour includes a rental car suited to Icelandic road conditions, with convenient pick-up and drop-off at Akureyri Airport. Available vehicle options are the Toyota Aygo (manual), the VW Golf (manual), and the Dacia Duster 4×4 (manual), ideal for extra stability and flexibility. Automatic vehicles and additional extras are available on request and subject to availability.
Accommodation is arranged in comfortable, carefully selected hotels along the route. You will stay in standard rooms with private bathroom facilities. Daily breakfast is included, ensuring a relaxed and convenient start to each day of your North Iceland self-drive tour.

Day 1: Arrival in Akureyri and Journey to Lake Mývatn

Arrive at Akureyri Airport, the gateway to North Iceland, where you collect your rental car directly from the car rental desk located in the arrivals hall. Once on the road, you begin your self-drive adventure through some of the region’s most iconic landscapes.

If time allows, you may choose to start the day with an optional activity in Akureyri, such as a whale-watching tour in Eyjafjörður or a horseback-riding experience through the surrounding countryside, both excellent ways to connect with Icelandic nature from the very first day.

Leaving Akureyri, drive east toward Goðafoss, one of Iceland’s most celebrated waterfalls. Easily accessible from the Ring Road, Goðafoss is known for its broad horseshoe shape and powerful flow. Its name, the Waterfall of the Gods, comes from an essential moment in Icelandic history, when pagan idols were cast into the falls after Christianity was adopted as the official religion around the year 1000.

Continue onward to the Lake Mývatn area, one of the most geologically active and diverse regions in the country. Volcanic forces shape the surroundings, home to lava fields, craters, unusual rock formations, steaming geothermal areas, and bubbling mud pools. The lake itself is renowned for its rich birdlife, especially during the summer months.

To end the day, you may choose to unwind at the Mývatn Nature Baths, where warm geothermal waters offer a relaxing soak with sweeping views over the volcanic landscape. As an alternative, an optional visit to the Earth Lagoon provides another geothermal bathing experience in the area.

Overnight for 2 nights in the Lake Mývatn area. Accommodation in a 3-star hotel, double or twin standard room with private facilities and breakfast included.

Not included in this tour:

Optional tours and activities, entrance fees, meals other than breakfast, and domestic flights.

Domestic flights between Reykjavík and Akureyri can be added to the package on request.

Suggested itinerary for the day:

Day 2: Lake Mývatn – Húsavík – Ásbyrgi – Lake Mývatn

Today, you explore the northern highlights of the Diamond Circle, combining coastal charm, wildlife encounters, and dramatic canyon landscapes before returning to the Lake Mývatn area.

Your first destination is Húsavík, a picturesque seaside town set on the shores of Skjálfandi Bay. Known as the whale watching capital of Iceland, Húsavík has a welcoming atmosphere, colorful houses, and a strong cultural scene with museums, cafés, and excellent restaurants. Its location makes it an ideal base for discovering the natural wonders of North Iceland.

While in Húsavík, there are several optional activities to enhance your visit. Whale watching tours are highly recommended and offer the chance to see humpback whales, minke whales, dolphins, and, in some seasons, puffins. Booking in advance is advised, especially during the summer months.

For relaxation, the GeoSea Baths offer a unique geothermal bathing experience with infinity pools overlooking the ocean, saunas, and a restaurant. You may also wish to visit the Whale Museum to learn more about the marine life of Skjálfandi Bay, stop by the charming Húsavíkurkirkja church built in 1907, or explore local history at the Exploration Museum or the Culture House. Food lovers can enjoy fresh seafood and traditional Icelandic dishes at one of the town’s well-regarded restaurants.

From Húsavík, continue inland to Dettifoss, Europe’s most powerful waterfall. The immense volume of glacial water plunges dramatically into a deep canyon, creating a thunderous roar and clouds of mist visible from afar. Standing near Dettifoss is an unforgettable experience and a reminder of the raw power of Icelandic nature.

Next, visit Ásbyrgi Canyon, an impressive horseshoe-shaped depression in Northeast Iceland. Surrounded by cliffs and forested areas, Ásbyrgi offers a peaceful contrast to the force of Dettifoss. A prominent rock formation known as the Island rises from the center of the canyon, adding to its striking appearance. The area is crisscrossed with walking trails, making it ideal for gentle summer hikes. According to Icelandic folklore, Ásbyrgi is home to hidden people, elves, and trolls, and is said to have been formed by the hoofprint of Odin’s eight-legged horse.

After a full day of exploration, return to the Lake Mývatn area for another overnight stay, surrounded by volcanic landscapes and geothermal activity.

Suggested itinerary for the day:

Day 3: Lake Mývatn – Akureyri – Dalvík – Siglufjörður

Today, you leave the volcanic landscapes of Lake Mývatn and drive west toward the Eyjafjörður region, with a stop in Akureyri, often referred to as the capital of North Iceland. While compact in size, Akureyri offers a surprisingly rich mix of culture, dining, and local life.

Spend some time exploring the town center, where you will find inviting cafés, restaurants, and small independent shops. Cultural highlights include Hof Menningahúsið, the town’s main cultural center, and Græni Hatturinn, a well-known music venue hosting concerts and events throughout the year. A stroll through the older residential areas reveals charming traditional wooden houses, while a visit to Akureyri Museum provides insight into local history and rotating exhibitions.

During the summer months, a visit to the Botanical Garden is highly recommended. As the northernmost botanical garden in the world, it bursts with color and variety, and the on-site café is a pleasant spot to enjoy a coffee surrounded by greenery.

Continue north along the scenic Eyjafjörður fjord toward Dalvík and Hauganes. Here, you may choose to join an optional whale watching tour from Hauganes. This three-hour excursion takes place in one of Iceland’s best whale watching areas, offering excellent chances to see humpback whales, minke whales, harbor porpoises, and white-beaked dolphins. On rare occasions, orcas or even blue whales are spotted. The tours are operated by experienced local captains who work as fishermen during the winter, bringing deep knowledge of the fjord and its wildlife.

From the coast, the road climbs over the mountains of the Tröllaskagi Peninsula before descending into Siglufjörður. This colorful town of around 1,300 residents is the northernmost town on mainland Iceland and is beautifully set between steep mountains and the sea. Siglufjörður is known not only for its striking natural surroundings but also for its strong cultural heritage. The award-winning Herring Era Museum tells the story of the town’s fishing past, while the Folk Music Museum and annual Folk Music Festival highlight its artistic traditions.

Overnight in Siglufjörður. Accommodation at Hotel Sigló or similar, a 3-star hotel. Standard double or twin room with private facilities, including breakfast.

Suggested itinerary for the day:

Day 4: Siglufjörður – Hofsós – Glaumbær – Varmahlíð – Akureyri

Today’s route takes you from the northern coast back toward Akureyri, through the scenic Skagafjörður region, known for its strong farming traditions, Icelandic history, and sweeping coastal views.

Leaving Siglufjörður, drive south toward Hofsós, home to one of Iceland’s most well-known swimming pools. Built into a hillside overlooking the sea and designed by the same architect as the Blue Lagoon, the Hofsós swimming pool is renowned for its stunning setting. While not an actual infinity pool, the visual effect is similar, giving the impression that the warm geothermal water blends seamlessly with the ocean below. From the pool, enjoy expansive views toward Drangey island, with layers of blue stretching from the pool to the sea, the mountains, and the sky, creating a truly memorable bathing experience in any weather.

Continue into the fertile Skagafjörður valley to visit Glaumbær, one of Iceland’s best-preserved historic turf farms. The turf buildings offer an authentic glimpse into rural Icelandic life of earlier centuries, with rooms arranged around a traditional farmhouse layout, including living spaces, storage rooms, and a smithy. The oldest structures date back several centuries, while the living room reflects later additions from the late 19th century.

Glaumbær is also closely connected to Icelandic saga history. According to the sagas, Snorri Þorfinnsson lived here in the 11th century. Born in Vinland, he is believed to be the first child of European parents born in the New World and is said to have built the first church at Glaumbær.

Nearby, two historic timber buildings are also open to visitors. Gilsstofa, initially built in 1849, now serves as a reception area, while Áshús, constructed between 1883 and 1886, houses exhibitions and a charming tea room. Stopping here for a pancake and hot chocolate is a cozy and popular way to end the visit.

After passing through Varmahlíð, continue west toward Akureyri, where you will spend the night.

Overnight in Akureyri. Accommodation in a 3-star hotel. Standard double or twin room with private facilities, including breakfast.

Suggested itinerary for the day:

Day 5: Departure from Akureyri

Today marks the end of your self-drive journey in North Iceland. Drive to Akureyri Airport and return your rental car at the designated drop-off area.

Proceed to the terminal for check-in and your onward flight, bringing home lasting memories of Iceland’s northern landscapes, rich history, and coastal charm.

What to bring:

Valid driver’s license & credit card in the main driver’s name (no deposit, card is a security for the rental)
Warm and waterproof clothing that fits the season when you arrive
Sturdy waterproof hiking boots
Swimsuit if you plan to relax in the spa, pools or natural hot springs
Sunglasses (will be useful when driving in bright sunlight)
Plenty of room for new photos, great videos and incredible new memories

Love what you see but need something slightly different?

No problem! Below, you will find all self-drive tours and the best day tours to add to your itinerary. You can also fill out our Travel Planner form and let us know about your dream vacation in Iceland—we´ll create the perfect program just for you!

Book this tour

This self-drive tour is available upon request, and we’re excited to help make your dream trip a reality! Your preferences are important to us, and we’re happy to adjust the tour to match your arrival dates. Don’t hesitate to get in touch with us, and we’ll create a customized itinerary just for you.

Price: from 115,000 ISK per person (May 2026, 2 pax in a double/twin room), from 165,000 ISK per person (June–September 2026, 2 pax in a double/twin room)

Get in touch!

Included:

4 nights of accommodation in 3* hotels, double or twin rooms with private bathrooms and breakfast
4 days of car rental with unlimited mileage, CDW insurance
Car pick-up & drop-off at Akureyri Airport
A detailed itinerary with multiple daily options based on pre-booked accommodation (please let us know if you need help to find your dream activity)
Taxes & VAT
Support from our local consultants who have first-hand knowledge of Iceland and will help you in case of any problems

Flights Reykjavik – Akureyri – Reykjavik can be added to the package upon request.