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Vestrahorn mountain at Stokksnes

Self-Drive: Complete Iceland Circle (8 days)

  • 8 days
  • Self-drive

Embark on an 8-day self-drive tour around Iceland, experiencing its stunning landscapes, majestic waterfalls, and rich cultural heritage. Enjoy the freedom to explore at your own pace while visiting iconic sites like the Golden Circle, South Coast, and Vatnajökull National Park.

Trip highlights

  • Experience the majestic waterfalls along the South Coast
  • Walk on the iconic black sand beaches and marvel at expansive glaciers
  • Visit the tranquil Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon and see its floating icebergs
  • Discover unique geological formations in the serene East Fjords
  • Explore the volcanic landscapes surrounding Lake Mývatn

About this trip

Embark on an unforgettable eight-day self-drive tour around Iceland, where you'll discover the country's most stunning natural and cultural landmarks. Begin your journey along the South Coast, where you'll be captivated by majestic waterfalls, striking black sand beaches, and immense glaciers. Visit the stunning Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon, famous for its floating icebergs and serene beauty. As you travel through the East Fjords, you'll encounter remarkable geological formations and immerse yourself in the local culture.

Explore the volcanic landscapes near Lake Mývatn and witness the power of the Dettifoss waterfall. Delve into Icelandic saga history in Borgarfjörður and experience the iconic Golden Circle. This includes Þingvellir National Park, the active Geysir area, and the majestic Gullfoss waterfall. This self-drive tour provides the freedom to explore at your own pace, offering a blend of adventure and the chance to appreciate Iceland's natural beauty and historical depth.

Day-by-day itinerary

A starting point, not a fixed route — request the full itinerary and we adjust it to your dates and pace.

  1. Arrival

    Arrive in Iceland and pick up your rental car at Keflavík International Airport. Begin your journey by driving through the surreal lava fields of the Reykjanes Peninsula. These volcanic landscapes, adorned with moss and framed by distant mountains, offer a captivating introduction to Iceland's natural wonders. Spend your first night in Reykjavík, the vibrant capital known for its rich cultural scene and colorful architecture.

    • Driving: Approx 50 km (31 miles)
    • Accommodation: Reykjavík
  2. South Coast

    Set out on a scenic drive along the South Coast, renowned for its breathtaking landscapes. Start with a visit to Seljalandsfoss, a waterfall you can walk behind for an exceptional perspective. Then, admire the powerful Skógafoss waterfall, famous for its misty rainbows. Continue to Dyrhólaey, a coastal promontory offering panoramic views and a distinctive rock arch. Visit Reynisfjara, a black sand beach famous for its basalt columns and crashing waves. End your day in the village of Vík.

    • Driving: Approx 225 km (140 miles)
    • Accommodation: Vík area
  3. Vatnajökull National Park

    Travel east from Vík towards Vatnajökull National Park, home to Europe’s largest glacier. Explore the Skaftafell area, known for its hiking trails and the beautiful Svartifoss waterfall, framed by basalt columns. Visit Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon, where icebergs float serenely, and the nearby Diamond Beach, where ice chunks sparkle on the black sand. Conclude your day in Höfn, a town renowned for its seafood.

    • Driving: Approx 285 km (177 miles)
    • Accommodation: Höfn area
  4. East Fjords

    Depart from Höfn and drive through the picturesque East Fjords, characterized by dramatic coastlines and charming fishing villages. Visit Djúpivogur, known for its artistic heritage and birdlife, and explore Fáskrúðsfjörður, a village with historical ties to French fishermen. This scenic drive offers breathtaking views of fjords and mountains. Finish your day in Egilsstaðir, the largest town in the east.

    • Driving: Approx 270 km (168 miles)
    • Accommodation: Egilsstaðir area
  5. Lake Mývatn

    Head through the northeast to reach Lake Mývatn, a hotspot of geological and geothermal activity. Make a detour to Dettifoss, Europe’s most powerful waterfall. Explore the geothermal area of Námaskarð with its boiling mud pots and steam vents. Enjoy a relaxing soak in the Mývatn Nature Baths, hike the Hverfjall crater, and wander through the Dimmuborgir lava formations. Visit Goðafoss, the "Waterfall of the Gods," before arriving in Akureyri.

    • Driving: Approx 335 km (208 miles)
    • Accommodation: Akureyri area
  6. Borgarfjörður

    Leave Akureyri and head towards Skagafjörður, a valley known for its horse breeding and saga history. Visit the Glaumbær turf farm, showcasing medieval Icelandic life. Drive over the Holtavörðuheiði highland road to Borgarfjörður. Explore Reykholt, once the home of medieval scholar Snorri Sturluson, and see Deildartunguhver, Europe's most powerful hot spring. Visit the stunning Hraunfossar and Barnafoss waterfalls.

    • Driving: Approx 400 km (249 miles)
    • Accommodation: Borgarfjörður area
  7. Golden Circle

    Explore the Golden Circle, starting with Þingvellir National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site where the world’s oldest parliament was established. Visit the Geysir geothermal area, where Strokkur geyser erupts every few minutes. Marvel at Gullfoss, the "Golden Falls," a magnificent waterfall with a dramatic two-tiered drop. Return to Reykjavík for your final night.

    • Driving: Approx 295 km (183 miles)
    • Accommodation: Reykjavík
  8. Departure

    Depart from Reykjavík and drive to Keflavík International Airport. Return your rental car and prepare for your departure, bringing your Icelandic adventure to a close.

    • Driving: Approx 50 km (31 miles)

What’s included

  • Accommodation with breakfast and private facilities
  • Rental car with unlimited mileage, VAT, CDW, SCDW, GP, and TP
  • Airport pickup and drop off for rental car
  • Daily itinerary in multiple languages (English, Spanish, French, Italian, German)
  • Emergency phone support

Frequently asked questions

Is the itinerary flexible?

A valid driver's license from your home country is generally sufficient for driving in Iceland. However, it is recommended to carry an International Driving Permit (IDP) if your license is not in English or if you are from a non-European country. Check with your rental car provider for specific requirements.

Yes, the itinerary is flexible. While a detailed suggested itinerary is provided, you have the freedom to explore at your own pace. The self-drive nature of the tour allows you to make detours and spend more time at locations that interest you most.

Pack layers of clothing to be prepared for Iceland's variable weather. Waterproof and windproof outer layers, warm clothing, sturdy hiking shoes, and swimwear for the hot springs are essential. Also, bring travel adapters, a detailed map or GPS, and any personal items you may need during the trip.

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