10-Day Summer Self-Drive Tour: Ring Road & Snaefellsnes Peninsula
Duration
10 Days
Availability
May - Sep
Difficulty
Easy
Minimum Age
None
Overview
Grab the wheel and explore the best Iceland has to offer this summer. On this 10-day self-drive tour, you’ll circle the whole island, including Snæfellsnes Peninsula. You’ll stop at stunning locations such as Reynisfjara Black Sand Beach, Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon, Dettifoss Waterfall, and Akureyri town. Those looking for the ultimate road trip in the land of ice and fire need to look no further.
Book your summer self-drive tour today and experience the breathtaking beauty of Iceland’s Ring Road and Snaefellsnes Peninsula.
- Visit all of Iceland's national parks and witness the unparalleled natural beauty of the country
- Experience the freedom to explore Iceland at your own pace, allowing you also to avoid crowds at popular spots
- Customize your tour, adding extra days or choosing accommodation levels, and receive a personalized itinerary made just for you
- Add on exciting adventures such as visiting the Blue Lagoon, exploring ice caves, descending into a volcano, glacier hiking, and riding Icelandic horses
Included
- 9 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
- Detailed Itinerary with fun and practical information on the nature, history, and culture of Iceland
- 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 – Arrival in Iceland
As your plane gets ready to land, you can see the vast lava fields of the Reykjanes Peninsula out of the window. Once you land, collect your bags and rental vehicle and drive across the volcanic landscape toward Reykjavík, where you will spend your first night. After checking into your hotel, feel free to explore this world’s northernmost capital.
Highlights:
- Reykjanes Peninsula
- Harpa Concert Hall
- Laugavegur Shopping Street
- Hallgrímskirkja Church
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 – Discovering the Golden Circle
Your adventure on the road begins with a trip to the famous Golden Circle. The first stop is Þingvellir National Park, where Viking settlers gathered to lay the law of the land. It is also a meeting point of two tectonic plates. From there, you’ll travel to the erupting geysers at Geysir Geothermal Area before seeing the majestic Gullfoss Waterfall. After exploring the sites of the Golden Circle — perhaps with a detour to Kerið Crater Lake — head to your accommodation in the area.
Highlights:
- Þingvellir National Park
- Geysir Geothermal Area
- Gullfoss Waterfall
- Kerið Crater Lake
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 3 – Adventures in South Iceland
On today’s journey, you’ll see glittering glaciers, silvery waterfalls, and black sand beaches. Start with a stop at Seljalandsfoss, a waterfall that you can walk behind. From there, head to another equally impressive waterfall, Skógafoss. Then, travel to the black sands of Reynisfjara before heading to Vatnajökull National Park, where you’ll see Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon and Diamond Beach. Spend the night in the area.
Highlights:
- Seljalandsfoss Waterfall
- Skógafoss Waterfall
- Reynisfjara Black Sand Beach
- Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon & Diamond Beach
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.
- Glacier Hike in Skaftafell: Easy glacier hike, suitable for most people. 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.
- Jökulsárlón Zodiac Boat Tour: Get a front-row seat to see the giant icebergs at Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon. The small Zodiac boat can get closer to the icebergs than the larger amphibian boat, providing you with a unique perspective over the bergs. Includes use of floatation overalls and lifejackets. Minimum age is 10 and children must also be taller than 130 cm (4’3”).
- Jökulsárlón Amphibian Boat Tour: Sail amongst the enormous icebergs on Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon. This tour is especially suited for families with young children as well as photographers looking for a great shot of the ice. Included is a guided tour in English and use of lifevest. No age limit.
Day 4 -The Remote East Iceland
Today, you’ll travel the winding roads of East Iceland, enjoying the unspoiled nature and stopping at one or two of the charming villages found there. You’ll travel past the picturesque Mt. Vestrahorn on your way to Hallormsstaðaskógur, Iceland’s largest forest. Make sure you check out Lake Lagarfljót; a terrible wyrm-monster is said to live there. Spend the night in or near Egilsstaðir Town.
Highlights:
- Mt. Vestrahorn
- Djúpivogur Town
- Hallormsstaðaskógur Forest
- Egilsstaðir Town
Optional Activities
- Vök Nature Baths: Vök Nature Baths are surrounded by nothing but the untouched nature of East Iceland. The ticket includes entry to the baths and a tisane brewed from the spring water and local herbs at the infusion bar. Bring a swimsuit and a towel, but those can also be rented onsite. No minimum age.
Day 5 – Visiting Dettifoss, the Prometheus Waterfall
Today, you’ll head North and visit three attractions of the Diamond Circle. You will start by visiting the stunning Dettifoss Waterfall, made famous in the opening shot of the Ridley Scott movie Prometheus. Then, it is off to the beautiful canyon Ásbyrgi, believed by Vikings to have been created by Odin’s horse, Sleipnir, before exploring the charming town of Húsavík. You’ll spend the night in the area.
Highlights:
- Dettifoss Waterfall
- Selfoss Waterfall
- Ásbyrgi Canyon
- Húsavík Town
Optional Activities
- Whale Watching Tour: See the whales in their natural habitat. Includes 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.
- Whale and Puffin Watching RIB Boat Tour: Hop aboard a boat and explore the diverse marine life around Iceland. You’ll search for both the mighty whales and the adorable puffins on this tour. Included on this tour is a specialized guide, warm safety overalls and a little surprise from a local winemaker. Minimum age is 7 years.
- GeoSea Geothermal Sea Baths: Unwind and enjoy the stunning view at GeoSea Geothermal Sea Baths in the town of Húsavík. GeoSea limits the number of guests, allowing for a more peaceful and relaxing experience for those who visit. Bring with you a swimsuit and a towel but those can also be rented onsite. No minimum age.
Day 6 – The Lunar Landscapes of Lake Mývatn
After breakfast, you will explore the otherworldly area of Lake Mývatn. Here, you’ll find a stunning hot spring inside a cave, a natural maze of lava pillars, a geothermal region filled with steam vents and bubbling mud pools, and Lake Mývatn itself. At the end of the day, make your way to Akureyri, where you will spend the night. We recommend stopping at the stunning waterfall, Goðafoss, which is en route.
Highlights:
- Lake Mývatn
- Grjótagjá Cave
- Dimmuborgir Lava Field
- Goðafoss Waterfall
Optional Activities
- Mývatn Nature Baths: Unwind in geothermal water just South of the Arctic Circle. Please bring a swimsuit and a towel. However, you can also rent a towel if you don’t have one with you. Alcoholic beverages available to purchase for those over 20 years of age.
Day 7 – North Iceland In-Depth
Today, you’ll explore the wonders of North Iceland in-depth by driving the mountainous Tröllaskagi peninsula. Here, you’ll find extraordinary views and charming fishing villages with an award-winning museum and a stunning infinity pool. At the end of the day, you’ll head to the town of Blönduós, where you will spend the night.
Highlights:
- Tröllaskagi Peninsula
- Siglufjörður Town
- Hofsós Town
- Hvítserkur Rock Stack
Optional Activities
- Whale Watching tour from Akureyri: Head to sea to search for the gentle whales which make the waters around Akureyri their home. 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
- Beer Spa: Soak in hops and yeast at the Beer Spa! Single and double tubs available. Bathwater is undrinkable, so there is no age limit but 16 years or younger must be accompanied by adults. Beer on draught at every tub for anybody over the age of 20.
- 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 8 – The Wonders of the Snæfellsnes Peninsula
Now, it is time to explore the magical Snæfellsnes Peninsula where you’ll spend the night. Watching over your journey today is the mighty Snæfellsjökull, a glacier-topped volcano that is believed by many to be a great source of mystical energy. Desolate lava-strewn fields, tall mountains, and countless streams and waterfalls characterize the area, and you can take your time exploring them all.
Highlights:
- Kirkjufell Mountain
- Djúpalónssandur Black Pebble Beach
- Lóndrangar Rock Stacks
- Arnarstapi Village
Optional Activities
- Whale Watching Tour – Ólafsvík: Two of the ocean’s top predators, sperm whales and orcas (also known as killer whales), make the waters around Snæfellsnes Peninsula their home. That means this your best chance to spot them while in Iceland. Dress warmly and bring a hat, scarf and gloves.
- Viking Sushi Boat Tour: Head to sea on a Viking adventure! From Stykkishólmur town, you’ll board a boat which will take you around the countless islands found in Breiðafjörður Bay. Keep an eye out for birds such as fulmars and adorable puffins. The highlight of the tour is when the crew pull up the nets and allow guests to try out fresh scallops and sea urchins. Bring warm clothes. No minimum age.
Day 9 – West Iceland Adventures
Now, it’s time to head back to Reykjavík. However, you will first explore the wonders of West Iceland before you reach the capital. You’ll see geometric cliffs, stunning waterfalls, and Europe’s most powerful hot spring. Once back in Reykajvík, you’ll find the midnight sun keeping the city alive well into the night. So, make use of it and enjoy your last night in Iceland, exploring the capital’s active nightlife.
Highlights:
- Gerðuberg Cliffs
- Reykholt Village
- Hraunfossar & Barnafoss
- Deildartunguhver Hot Spring
Optional Activities
- Langjökull Ice Cave Tunnels: Step inside Iceland’s second-largest glacier. The man-made tunnels provide visitors with the unique opportunity to explore deep inside the heart of an ice cap. Included is a guided tour, transportation from the base camp up the glacier, and free wifi on the glacier shuttle so you can Instagram your photos right away! No age limit.
- 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.
- Inside the Volcano: Descend into the magma chamber of a 4,000 year old volcano. To get to the volcano, you have to be able to hike for 45-50 on uneven surface. All safety gear is provided as well as Icelandic meat soup to warm you up after the trip (vegetarian options available). Minimum age is 12 years.
Day 10 – Goodbye to Iceland
Now, it is time to pack your bags and return to Keflavík Airport. If your flight leaves in the afternoon or evening, you will have some time to explore Reykjavík before you go. Alternatively, you can fit in an adventure or two before you leave, such as exploring a museum or relaxing in the Blue Lagoon.
Highlights:
- Hallgrímskirkja Church
- Einar Jónsson Museum & Garden
- Laugavegur Shopping Street
- Harpa Concert Hall
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.
- Whales of Iceland: Whales of Iceland is the largest whale exhibition in Europe. The display features life-size models of 23 whale species found in Icelandic waters, as well as interactive information stands that help enhance the experience and educate visitors. Suitable for all ages.
- Fly over Iceland: Soar over the entire island, seeing Iceland’s most spectacular sceneries with the latest in simulated flight ride technology. FlyOver Iceland will allow you to virtually soar over Iceland’s most iconic landscapes, while special effects — including wind, mist, scent and motion — help create the illusion of flight. Children need to be at least 102 cm (3’4″) to participate.
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
- More information on what to pack HERE
