8 days
Iceland Full Circle Classic Escapade: 10 Days Self Drive Itinerary
- 10 days
- Guided small-group
- Summer
As you wrap up your 10-day self-drive adventure around Iceland, you'll have experienced a breathtaking blend of natural wonders and cultural richness. This journey takes you through Iceland's most stunning sights, from thundering waterfalls and steaming geothermal spas to quaint villages and the lively streets of Reykjavík. Ideal for nature enthusiasts and explorers, the Iceland Full Circle itinerary offers freedom and discovery at every turn. Whether it's soaking in the Blue Lagoon, exploring the Snæfellsnes Peninsula, or hiking through national parks, each day presents a new adventure in the land of fire and ice. Embrace this opportunity to connect with Iceland's unique landscapes and vibrant culture. Start planning your memorable journey through Iceland's spectacular scenery and welcoming communities. This is more than a trip; it's a journey into the heart of one of the world's most extraordinary destinations.
Trip highlights
- Marvel at Jökulsárlón's massive icebergs.
- Tour the iconic Golden Circle.
- Explore Lake Mývatn's volcanic beauty.
- Visit Seljalandsfoss and Skógafoss waterfalls.
- Traverse Vatnajökull, Thingvellir, and Snæfellsnes parks.
About this trip
Embark on a captivating 10-day journey through Iceland's Full Circle escapade, a land of otherworldly landscapes and enchanting natural beauty. This renowned journey takes you along Iceland's famous "Ring Road" and through the enchanting Snæfellsnes Peninsula.
As you travel, you'll encounter Iceland's breathtaking natural wonders, such as Thingvellir National Park, the majestic Gullfoss and Goðafoss waterfalls, and the otherworldly terrain of Lake Mývatn, adorned with craters and surreal rock structures.
Day-by-day itinerary
A starting point, not a fixed route — request the full itinerary and we adjust it to your dates and pace.
Day 1: REYKJAVIK ARRIVAL
Historical and touristic downtown in Reykjavik at sunset and rainbow in Iceland.
Upon arriving at Keflavík Airport, make your way to your accommodation in Reykjavík. After settling in, the remainder of your day is leisurely exploring the vibrant capital city, brimming with museums, restaurants, and bars catering to all preferences.
Interested in Icelandic design or the city's thriving coffee culture? Visit Laugavegur, the main street, where you'll find a variety of shops and cozy cafes to enjoy.
Day 2: THE GOLDEN CIRCLE
View of the rift valley at the Thingvellir national park in Iceland
In the morning, pick up your rental car and embark on the renowned “Golden Circle” tour featuring Iceland's famed attractions. Your first stop is the captivating Thingvellir National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, where you can stroll through the rift valley that lies between the North American and Eurasian tectonic plates.
Following this is a visit to the Haukadalur geothermal area, home to the original geyser, Geysir, and its active counterpart, Strokkur, erupting water regularly. Conclude your tour with visits to the splendid Gullfoss waterfall and the ancient implosion crater, Kerið.
Day 3: WATERFALLS AND VOLCANIC BEACHES
Seljalandsfoss waterfall Iceland
Begin your day by exploring the enchanting Seljalandsfoss waterfall, where you have the unique opportunity to walk behind its cascading veil of mist, followed by a visit to the impressive 60-meter tall Skógafoss waterfall, just a brief drive away.
Continue to Vík, where a stop at the black volcanic beach offers picturesque views of the Dyrhólaey and Reynisdrangar rock formations. Your final destination is the breathtaking Fjaðrárgljúfur canyon. Additionally, seize the opportunity today to partake in an exhilarating guided tour, either on foot or by snowmobile, across a glacier!
Day 4: GLACIERS AND ICEBERGS
ice cave, iceland
Delight in the splendors of Skaftafell, nestled within the vast Vatnajökull National Park, known for its stunning natural beauty of glaciers, ice caves, and many interesting hiking trails, including a brief hike to the captivating Svartifoss waterfall.
This region also offers many adventurous activities, like guided glacier hikes or ice-climbing adventures. Afterward, go to the spectacular Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon on Iceland's South Coast, where you can embark on a boat tour amidst the floating icebergs.
Day 5: EAST FJORDS
Dettifoss waterfall in Northeast Iceland region.
Your day will be filled with a scenic drive through the diverse landscapes of East Iceland, including peaceful fishing villages, narrow fjords, and vast tundra expanses.
Upon arriving in North Iceland, get ready to experience the awe of Dettifoss, one of Europe's most formidable waterfalls. A short 1-kilometer (0.6-mile) walk from the parking area leads you to a stunning viewpoint overlooking the waterfall as it plunges dramatically over a cliff.
The day continues with an exploration of Lake Mývatn's natural wonders. Here, you'll encounter the steaming Námaskarð pass, the intriguing lava formations at Dimmuborgir, and the unique pseudocraters of Skútustaðagígar, making it an unforgettable experience for anyone fascinated by geology.
Day 6: JÖKULSÁRGLJÚFUR NATIONAL PARK
Aerial view of Asbyrgi canyon in a sunny day and cloudy blue sky on the background
Dedicate this day to delving deeper into the distinctive area around Lake Mývatn. Consider driving through the Jökulsárgljúfur section of Vatnajökull National Park for additional breathtaking views.
Make sure to visit the majestic, horseshoe-shaped Ásbyrgi canyon carved out by ancient glaciers. Alternatively, you could participate in a whale-watching excursion in the neighboring village of Húsavík, famously recognized as "the whale-watching capital of Europe."
Day 7: AKUREYRI & NORTH ICELAN
Waterfall of the Gods, GOÐAFOSS
Begin your exploration by stopping at the breathtaking Goðafoss, also known as the “Waterfall of the Gods.” Next, journey to the charming town of Akureyri in Northwest Iceland, where you'll discover unique shops, intriguing museums, and a beautifully maintained botanical garden.
After spending some time in Akureyri, venture to Tröllaskagi, or the “Peninsula of the Trolls”, renowned for its stunning landscapes featuring majestic mountains, rugged cliffs, and expansive fjords.
Your route then leads through Siglufjörður, historically the hub of Iceland’s herring industry. If time allows, consider a detour to Hofsós for a relaxing soak in the thermal pool.
Conclude your day in Skagafjörður, a region celebrated for its purebred Icelandic horses. Watch out for these iconic animals as you enter the area.
Day 8: SNÆFELLSNES PENINSULA
Þingeyrakirkja church
Set off for the Snæfellsnes Peninsula today. Along your journey, marvel at the myriad hills of Vatnsdalshólar and the striking Þingeyrakirkja church.
Consider making a stop at Eiríksstaðir, the historical home of the Viking Erik the Red, now a lively museum, and the warm, geothermal waters of Guðrúnarlaug. Another option is to visit Stykkishólmur, a picturesque fishing village set against the backdrop of Breiðafjörður Bay.
While there, take a stroll up Súgandisey, a small hill near the harbor, to enjoy a splendid panoramic view of the town, sea, and surrounding mountains.
Day 9: SNÆFELLSJÖKULL NATIONAL PARK AND SNÆFELLSJÖKULL GLACIE
Snæfellsnes peninsula Kirkjufellsfoss Hengifoss Iceland
Discover the extraordinary Snæfellsjökull National Park, home to diverse bird species, verdant valleys, and expansive lava fields. A drive around the peninsula offers a chance to explore scenic spots like Dritvík Cove, Lóndrangar Cliffs, and the Hellnar and Arnarstapi Cliffs, known for their abundant birdlife and quaint coastal villages.
You can also try lifting the historical lifting stones at Djúpalónssandur's black volcanic beach, a traditional test of strength for seafarers in bygone days.
Day 10: DEPARTURE
The Blue Lagoon geothermal spa is one of the most visited attractions in Iceland
On your departure day, make your way from your Reykjavík hotel to Keflavík International Airport in time for your flight.
If your flight isn't until the afternoon, consider using the extra time for a tranquil visit to the Blue Lagoon geothermal spa, or take the opportunity to explore the volcanic Reykjanes Peninsula with a short guided tour.
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