6-Day Summer Road Trip: West and South Iceland’s Waterfalls
Duration
6 Days
Availability
May - Sep
Difficulty
Easy
Minimum Age
None
Overview
On this tour, you’ll visit the stunning attractions found in West and South Iceland, including those on the famous Golden Circle sightseeing route. Stop at the waterfalls Seljalandsfoss and Skógafoss, the black sand beach of Reynisfjara, and Europe’s most powerful hot spring, Deildartunguhver.
Book now and spend 6 amazing days under the midnight sun in Iceland!
- Explore Iceland's stunning attractions at your own pace, without being restricted by tour guides or large buses
- The detailed itinerary provided by local experts gives you ideas of what to see and do, but you have the freedom to follow your own path and create a unique experience
- Customize your trip by adding extra days or exciting adventures such as horseback riding, glacier hiking, or relaxing at the Blue Lagoon
- Take advantage of the long daylight hours of the midnight sun to explore and do more on this unforgettable summer self-drive tour
Included
- 5 nights of accommodation (different levels available; breakfast included for all levels; more detailed info in accommodation tab)
- Vehicle for the duration of the trip with unlimited mileage (VW Golf 2WD or similar. Upgrades available)
- Medium Protection Package for car rental: CDW, SCDW, PAI, THW and GP (More info click here)
- Mobile WIFI including 3GB total
- Personal itinerary with fun and practical information about Iceland
- 24/7 helpline and a hands-on travel agent to oversee your itinerary
- Taxes
Not included
- Flights to/from Iceland
- Personal travel insurance
- Gasoline/Petrol
- Driving-Related Fees
- Meals & drinks (unless otherwise stated)
- Any services not listed as “Included”
Itinerary
Day 1 – Arriving in Iceland
After you land, pick up your bags and rental car and make your way to Iceland’s capital, Reykjavík. En route, you’ll pass through the moss-covered lava fields of the Reykjanes Peninsula. Natural wonders created by past volcanic eruptions and the movement of glaciers will fill up your next few days. This is, after all, the Land of Fire and Ice. However, for your first night, you will spend it in the city at a comfortable accommodation in the downtown area.
Highlights:
- Reykjavík
- Reykjanes Peninsula
Optional Activities
- Blue Lagoon Comfort Entrance: Includes entrance to the Blue Lagoon, silica mud mask, use of towel and 1st drink of your choice.
- Blue Lagoon Premium Entrance: Includes entrance to the Blue Lagoon, silica mud mask, use of towel, 1st drink of your choice, second mask of choice, slippers, use of bathrobe, table reservation at Lava Restaurant, and sparkling wine if dining.
Day 2 – Exploring West Iceland
Today, your adventure on the road begins. You will be exploring West Iceland today, starting with the beautiful waterfalls of Hraunfossar and Barnafoss. A short drive away is Europe’s largest hot spring, Deildartunguhver. In the evening, head to your accommodation in the Borgarfjörður region. It will be a short drive away from the town of Borgarnes, where you can get food and other supplies for tomorrow.
Highlights:
- Hraunfossar Waterfalls
- Barnafoss Waterfall
- Deildartunguhver Hot Spring
- Borgarnes Town
Optional Activities
- Viðgelmir Lava Cave: One of the largest caves in Iceland. Tour includes an English speaking guide and use of caving equipment such as a helmet and headlamp. No age limit.
- Krauma Spa: Unwind while enjoying the beautiful views of West-Iceland’s landscapes. Krauma Spa takes water from the nearby Deildartunguhver hot spring and cools it down with water from a glacier to create the perfect bathing experience. Bring a bathing suit and towel, but you can also rent those onsite. No age limit.
Day 3 – The Golden Circle
After breakfast, make your way to Iceland’s most popular sightseeing route, the Golden Circle. Here, you’ll walk between continents, see geysers erupt, and marvel at a gorgeous waterfall. Stop first at the historic Þingvellir National Park before visiting the geothermal area of Geysir. Lastly, stop by at the beautiful Gullfoss Waterfall. Spend the night in the area.
Highlights:
- Þingvellir National Park
- Geysir Geothermal Area
- Gullfoss Waterfall
Optional Activities
- Snorkeling in Silfra: Snorkeling between continents in crystal-clear water. Includes a tour with a certified PADI divemaster, all necessary snorkelling gear, Silfra admission fee, and hot chocolate to warm up after the dive. Minimum age 12 years.
- Snowmobiling on Langjökull: An exhilarating tour on top of a glacier, no previous riding experience needed. Included is a one-hour snowmobile ride with a guide and use of overalls. Two people share a snowmobile and the driver needs to bring their driving licence. Age limit for passenger is 8 years.
- 2 Hour Horse Riding Tour: Meet the friendly Icelandic Horse. Includes 1-1.5 hour guided horseback ride with a specially trained guide. Use of riding helmets, boots & rain wear. Minimum age is 8 years.
Day 4 – South Iceland
Today, you’ll explore the wonders of South Iceland, where two mighty glaciers will be visible throughout your journey: Eyjafjallajökull and Mýrdalsjökull Glaciers. Close to the glaciers are two stunning waterfalls, Seljalandsfoss and Skógafoss. You will then drive to the black sand beach of Reynisfjara before spending the night in or near the village of Vík.
Highlights:
- Seljalandsfoss Waterfall
- Skógafoss Waterfall
- Reynisfjara Black Sand Beach
Optional Activities
- Glacier Hiking on Sólheimajökull Glacier: A fun and easy glacier hike. No previous experience needed. Tour includes an English speaking glacier guide, use of helmet, crampons, ice axe and other necessary safety equipment. Minimum age is 8 years.
- Snowmobiling on Sólheimajökull Glacier: Race across a glacier on a snowmobile. No prior experience needed and all you have to bring are warm clothes and good shoes. Use of overalls, helmets and balaclavas are included. Two people share a snowmobile, and the driver needs to bring their driving licence. Age limit for passengers is 5 years.
Day 5 – Back to Reykjavík
Now, it is time to make your way back to Reykjavík. It is up to you whether you rush back to explore the world’s northernmost capital or take your time getting back to discover more of South Iceland’s attractions. On your way back to the city, you can choose to stop at any of the places you explored in the previous days. Alternatively, you can check out some new locations, such as Seljavallalaug Pool, Kerið Crater Lake, or Friðheimar Greenhouse.
Highlights:
- Seljavallalaug Pool
- Kerið Crater Lake
- Hallgrímskirkja Church
Optional Activities
- Katla Ice Cave: Visit an authentic ice cave in a glacier that covers an active volcano! Don’t worry, all volcanoes in Iceland are monitored so this is perfectly safe. Includes a tour with a certified glacier guide and use of all necessary glacier gear such as crampons and helmets. Minimum age is 6 years.
- Whale Watching Tour – Reykjavík: See the whales in their natural habitat. By Reykjavík’s Old Harbour, you’ll board the boat and head to sea. Included is a professionally guided tour and warm, floatable overalls for your safety and comfort. Also included is a second try in case of no sightings. No age limit.
Day 6 – Departure
Today is your departure day and time to bid farewell to Iceland. If your flight leaves late, you can store your luggage at the hotel while exploring the city. You still have your car, so you can leave the downtown area if you wish. When it is time to leave, you’ll drop the car off at Keflavík airport and say “sjáumst” to this land of fire and ice.
Highlights:
- Tjörnin Lake
- Laugavegur Shopping Street
Optional Activities
- Blue Lagoon Comfort Entrance: Includes entrance to the Blue Lagoon, silica mud mask, use of towel and 1st drink of your choice.
- Blue Lagoon Premium Entrance: Includes entrance to the Blue Lagoon, silica mud mask, use of towel, 1st drink of your choice, second mask of choice, slippers, use of bathrobe, table reservation at Lava Restaurant, and sparkling wine if dining.
Accommodation
You’ll have a choice of three accommodation levels. See details about each one in the boxes below. All accommodations for this tour have been hand-picked by our local travel experts.
Please keep in mind that hotel quality in Iceland varies between regions and that not all locations offer quality-level accommodations
Budget
Nice and comfortable rooms with shared bathroom facilities and shower located in farmhouses, guesthouses or hostels, in good locations with breakfast included. An example of this in Reykjavík would be Kex Hostel.
Comfort
Comfortable rooms in three-star hotels or quality guesthouses, centrally located, very close to popular attractions. Private bathroom and breakfast included. An example of this in Reykjavík would be Fosshotel Rauðará.
Quality
Rooms in four-star hotels or superior rooms in quality three-star hotels at fantastic locations near popular attractions. Private bathroom and breakfast is included. An example of this in Reykjavík would be Icelandair Hotel Marina.
Car
You’ll have a choice of three options for your rental car. See details for each option in the boxes below. We only work with highly reputable dealerships, ensuring a smooth ride throughout your holiday.
The vehicles for all levels are current models, no older than two years. They all come standard with a medium protection package, including CDW (Collision damage waiver), GP (Gravel Protection), Super Collision Damage Waiver (SCDW), Personal Accident Insurance (PAI), and a Theft Waiver (THW). They also come equipped with free Wi-Fi with 3GB total. You will also get 24-hour roadside emergency services from the car rental agency. In the wintertime, all cars have winter tires.
Compact 2WD
2WD vehicle such as a VW Golf, good for city driving and shorter trips. Fits up to 5 travellers & light luggage. No Highland capabilities. Driver must be at least 20 year old.
Comfort 4x4
4x4 jeep or SUV. Fits up to 5 travellers and 2 large pieces of luggage. Decent for snow and off-asphalt driving. Basic highland capabilities. Driver must be min. 20 years old.
Large 4x4
Large 4x4 like a Toyota Land Cruiser. Comfortable up to 5 travellers with 4 large pieces of luggage. Full highland capabilities. Driver must be min. 21 years old.
Map
Good to know
- Note that the itinerary may have to be rearranged to fit your arrival date and time better.
- The itinerary is dependent upon road and weather conditions, so it may be altered if conditions are not favorable. This includes optional activities as well. If extreme weather affects your travel plans, you will be notified, and we will do our best to assist you with rearranging or booking other activities when applicable.
- Some optional activities may need a valid driving license, or you may need to send additional information to your travel agent. For snorkeling, you will need to know how to swim and fill out an online medical document.
- The weather in Iceland is very unpredictable, even in the summertime. Make sure to be prepared and bring both warm and waterproof clothing.
What to bring
- Warm and waterproof clothes
- Good walking/hiking shoes
- Swimsuit and towel
- Camera
- Driving license
