8 days
Travel to South & West Iceland Classic: 8 Days Self Drive Itinerary
- 8 days
- Guided small-group
- Summer
In summary, this 8-day self-drive itinerary through South and West Iceland offers an unforgettable adventure filled with natural wonders, historical sites, and scenic beauty. Each day brings new discoveries, from the mystical Snæfellsjökull glacier to enchanting waterfalls, bubbling natural hot springs, and the iconic Golden Circle route. With options for customization and extras, you can tailor your experience. Whether your flight is in the morning or afternoon on the departure day, you can visit the Blue Lagoon or explore the volcanic Reykjanes Peninsula. Accommodation, car rental, and detailed information are provided for a smooth and memorable journey in the land of fire and ice.
Trip highlights
- See the huge floating icebergs at the Glacier Lagoon.
- Take a walk on the Diamond Beach and see the shiny scattered ice.
- Drive along the famous Golden Circle route.
- Enjoy the beautiful cascading waterfalls of Seljalandsfoss and Skógafoss.
- Explore the quaint streets of Reykjavík, the capital city.
About this trip
Are you ready for an epic 8-day self-drive adventure through the stunning landscapes of South and West Iceland? This itinerary has everything from the magical Snæfellsjökull glacier to towering waterfalls, bubbling hot springs, and the famous "Golden Circle" route.
Buckle up and dive into the highlights of this unforgettable exploration of the Icelandic countryside. Along the way, you'll have the chance to discover the Icelandic Sagas' historical locations and embrace Iceland's icy side with glacier lagoon visits, glacier walks, ice caves, and thrilling snowmobiling tours.
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: ARRIVAL & LEISURE DAY IN REYKJAVIK
Beautiful super wide-angle aerial view of Reykjavik, Iceland with harbor and skyline mountains and scenery beyond the city
Your journey in Iceland begins upon arrival at Keflavik Airport, where you can pick up your car and head to Reykjavik. Discover the lively heart of the city, teeming with museums, eateries, and pubs catering to every preference.
For those keen on Icelandic design or eager to immerse in the bustling coffee scene, make your way to Laugavegur, the main thoroughfare, and delight in its diverse stores and charming coffee shops.
Your day ends with a comfortable stay in Reykjavik, offering a mix of relaxation and vibrant city experiences.
Day 2: WEST ICELAND: HOT SPRINGS, WATERFALLS & GLACIER EXPEDITIONS
Hraunfossar (Borgarfjörður Iceland) waterfalls formed by rivulets streaming out of the Hallmundarhraun
Start your journey today with a drive through the beautiful Borgarfjörður area. Along the way, you'll see some amazing places like the twin waterfalls Hraunfossar and Barnafoss, the hot spring called Deildartunguhver, and you can even visit the Háafell Goat Farm.
If you're up for more adventures, you can choose to do some cool activities like relaxing in geothermal baths at Krauma, exploring a lava tunnel called Víðgelmir, going inside a glacier, or having an exciting snowmobile tour on top of a glacier. And if you're interested in Viking history, don't miss a stop at the Icelandic Settlement Center in Borgarnes; it's really interesting!
Day 3: SNÆFELLSNES PENINSULA
Djúpalónssandur on the Snaefellsnes Peninsula on Iceland
Today, your journey takes you to the enchanting Snæfellsnes peninsula, where the highlight of the day is undoubtedly the Snæfellsjökull glacier, believed to be one of Earth's seven major energy centers and famous as the backdrop for Jules Verne's novel "Journey to the Centre of the Earth."
Along the coastal drive, you'll also discover the wonders of Dritvík Cove, the striking Lóndrangar Cliffs, the picturesque Arnarstapi Cliffs, the charming hamlet of Hellnar, and several quaint fishing villages. Don't miss the chance for a fun photo opportunity and a taste of history at Djúpalónssandur, a pebble-filled beach featuring four renowned "lifting stones" once used to test the strength of men seeking jobs on fishing boats.
Are you up for the challenge of lifting these stones?
Day 4: THE GOLDEN CIRCLE
Þingvellir, a national park in southern Iceland
Today's journey takes you to some of Iceland's most famous attractions along the classic "Golden Circle" route. If you've opted for a 4x4 vehicle, you can also choose the Kaldidalur route. Within the Golden Circle, your adventure begins with a visit to the intriguing Þingvellir National Park, recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Here, you can walk along a path in the rift valley between the North American and Eurasian tectonic plates. Continuing on the route, you'll reach the Haukadalur geothermal area, where you'll encounter Geysir, the original "geyser," and its more active neighbor, Strokkur, which erupts with water every few minutes.
Wrap up your day's exploration with a stop at the magnificent two-tiered Gullfoss waterfall, a truly unforgettable sight in Iceland.
Day 5: MAJESTIC WATERFALLS & BLACK LAVA BEACH
The iconic black sand beaches of Reynisfjara and the sea stacks Reynisdrangar, between Vík í Mýrdal and Dyrhólaey, Southern Iceland
Begin your journey with a visit to the enchanting Seljalandsfoss waterfall, which feels like something out of a fairytale. Here, you can enjoy the unique experience of walking behind the misty curtain of the waterfall.
A short drive away, you'll discover another stunning waterfall, the impressive 60-meter-tall Skógafoss, which provides fantastic photo opportunities and the chance to explore its surroundings. Your next destination is the expansive black volcanic sand beach located in the south of Vík.
Here, you'll witness the striking basalt rock formations of Reynisdrangar and Dyrhólaey. Continue your picturesque drive along the South Coast, heading towards the charming village of Kirkjubæjarklaustur.
Day 6: SKAFTAFELL AND JÖKULSÁRLÓN GLACIER LAGOON
Iceland, Jokulsarlon lagoon, Beautiful cold landscape picture of icelandic glacier lagoon bay
Discover the wonders of Skaftafell, a captivating part of Vatnajökull National Park renowned for its immense beauty, well-maintained hiking trails, and proximity to Europe's largest ice cap. Among these trails is a short stroll leading to the enchanting Svartifoss waterfall. If you're feeling adventurous, this region offers the opportunity for a glacier walk or even a thrilling ice-climbing experience with the option of a guided tour.
After exploring Skaftafell, your journey continues to the mesmerizing Jökulsárlón glacier lagoon and the stunning Fjallsárlón ice lagoon. You can embark on a boat ride across the lagoon, where floating icebergs will surround you. Another remarkable sight awaits at the nearby black sand beach by Jökulsárlón, famously known as the diamond beach due to its glistening icebergs.
Return to your accommodation for a well-deserved night's rest as the day draws closer.
Day 7: SOUTH COAST TO THE VOLCANIC REYKJANES PENINSULA
Famous Fjadrargljufur canyon in Iceland.
Take a scenic drive along the South Coast, stopping at interesting places like Fjaðrarárgljúfur Canyon and the unique Dverghamrar "elf cliffs." As you continue your journey, you'll pass under the Eyjafjallajökull and Mýrdalsjökull volcanoes and arrive at the volcanic wonderland of the Reykjanes Peninsula, a reminder of Iceland's natural geothermal activity.
We suggest exploring the bubbling mud pots at Seltún and the serene Lake Kleifarvatn before heading to the famous Blue Lagoon geothermal Spa (please note that entrance fees are not included). The Blue Lagoon's water is known for its healing properties and striking blue color. You can have an in-water massage (book in advance) or simply relax in the sauna, steam bath, or under the soothing mini waterfall.
In the late afternoon, return your rental car to the capital city and enjoy your last night in South Iceland at your accommodation.
Day 8: DEPARTURE
Blue Lagoon Swimming Pool in Western Iceland
On your departure day, whether your flight is scheduled in the morning or afternoon, plan your journey from your Reykjavík hotel to Keflavík International Airport to ensure you arrive on time. If your flight is in the morning, make sure to allow sufficient time for the airport transfer.
On the other hand, if your flight is in the afternoon, consider using any extra time you may have for a peaceful visit to the Blue Lagoon geothermal spa or take the opportunity to explore the volcanic Reykjanes Peninsula with a brief guided tour.
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