Circle of Iceland: Summer Self-Drive Tour w/Guided Highland Hike

Duration

14 Days

Availability

Jul - Sep

Difficulty

Moderate

Minimum Age

10 Years

Overview

Discover the diversity of Icelandic nature with this 14-day summer tour. This adventure will take you deep into the Highland region on a 4-day guided hiking tour, where you’ll see pitch-black lava fields, colorful mountains, and geothermal areas. Then, you’ll take the wheel on a 10-day self-drive tour, and travel the circle of Iceland, seeing places like the Golden Circle, Lake Mývatn, and Snæfellsnes Peninsula on your own terms. Those looking for isolation, untouched nature, and the freedom to explore need to look no further.

Get to know Iceland in-depth this summer with this 14-day tour. Book now to secure your spot on this epic journey.

Included

During 4-day Guided Hike Tour
During 10-day Self-Drive

Not included

  • Flights to/from Iceland
  • Personal travel insurance
  • Gasoline/Petrol
  • Driving-Related Fees
  • Meals & drinks (unless otherwise stated)
  • Taxi ride from your hotel to Reykjavik meeting point on day 1
  • Taxi ride from Reykjavík Central bus station to your hotel after returning from the trek
  • Showers in the huts
  • Sleeping bag (can be rented for 5.500 isk during the booking process)
  • Drinks and other personal expenses
  • Any services not listed as “Included”

Itinerary

Hallgrimskirkja Church in Reykjavik, Iceland

Day 1 – Arriving in Iceland

After landing at Keflavík Airport, use your voucher to board a bus heading across the moss-covered lava fields of the Reykjanes Peninsula to Iceland’s capital, Reykjavík. Once in there, you’ll check into your hotel near the downtown area. If you wish, you can explore the capital a little before bed.

Highlights:

  • Reykjanes Peninsula
  • Reykjavík
  • 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.
A beautiful sunset over Hekla Volcano in South Iceland.

Day 2 – Volcano Hike in South Iceland

Close to your hotel is the Reykjavík Central Bus Station. There, you will meet your guide, who will take you out of the city and into the wild countryside for today’s trekking adventure. You’ll start in South Iceland, with a hike to the roots of the Hekla Volcano. You’ll end the day at a mountain hut in the area. Your guide will cook a nice dinner before you retire for the night.

Hiking Information:

  • Time: 3-4 Hours
  • Distance: approximately 10 km (6 miles)
  • Altitude: 135 -175 m (443 – 574 feet)
  • There are no optional activities for this day.
A hiker in front of a snowy peak, surrounded by volcanic landscapes in South Iceland.

Day 3 – Mt. Hekla

After breakfast, you’ll head out to explore the western side of Mt. Hekla. Today will see your first river crossing as you cut across the river Rangá. You will continue past hills of palagonite rocks until you reach the base of Mt. Hekla. You will spend the night surrounded by lunar-like landscapes.

Hiking Information:

  • Time: 6-8 Hours
  • Distance: approximately 22 km (14 miles)
  • Altitude: 175 – 320 m (574 – 1050 feet)
  • There are no optional activities for this day.
A river between snow-capped Kerlingarfjöll mountains in the Icelandic Highlands, summer.

Day 4 – The Icelandic Highlands

The landscapes will begin to soften as you move away from Mt. Hekla. Lava fields will make way for verdant lands with green, mossy hills, mountains, and lakes. You’ve now entered the mountain range of Kerlingarfjöll in the Icelandic Highlands. You’ll seek shelter in a camp near Mt. Loðmundur.  In the evening, your guide will cook a delicious meal and tell you stories and legends from this mystical place.

Hiking Information:

  • Time: 6-7 Hours
  • Distance: approximately 17 km (11 miles)
  • Altitude: 320 – 590 m (1050 – 1940 feet)
  • There are no optional activities for this day.
An aerial view of Landmannalaugar mountain landscape covered by snow and geothermal steam, Iceland.

Day 5 – Landmannalaugar Region

Your trek today will take you through the geothermal region of Landmannalaugar. The area is known for its many natural pools in which weary travelers can unwind after days of trekking. After a dip in the warm river that winds through the area, you’ll hop aboard a 4X4 vehicle, which will take you back to Reykjavík, where you will spend the night.

Hiking Information:

  • Time: 6-7 Hours
  • Distance: approximately 17 km (11 miles)
  • Altitude: 590 – 700 m (1050 – 2297 feet)
  • There are no optional activities for this day.
Gullfoss waterfall on Iceland's Golden Circle route in the summer.

Day 6 – The Golden Circle

Now that you have explored the Highland Region of Iceland, it is time to discover what wonders lie along the Ring Road. After breakfast, you will hop into your rental car and head out of the city. Iceland’s most popular sightseeing route, the Golden Circle, is on your agenda today. You will end the day at accommodations in or near Hvolsvöllur town on the South Coast of Iceland.

Highlights:

  • Þingvellir National Park
  • Geysir Geothermal Area
  • Gullfoss Waterfall
  • Snorkeling in Silfra: Swim between continents in crystal-clear water. Includes a tour with a certified PADI divemaster, all necessary snorkeling gear, Silfra admission fee, and hot chocolate to warm up afterward. The minimum age is 12 years, but participants under 18 must be accompanied by a parent or an adult guardian booked on the same tour.
  • Snowmobiling on Langjökull Glacier: 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 license. The age limit for passengers is 8 years.
  • Horseback Riding: Get to know the Icelandic horse on a riding tour through the countryside just outside of Reykjavík. Icelandic horses are small, friendly, and very intelligent creatures, making this excursion perfect for both new and experienced riders. Riding helmets, boots, and rainwear are provided.  Minimum age is 8.
Piece of an iceberg on the Diamond Beach at Jokulsarlon lagoon during sunset.

Day 7 – Iceland’s South Coast

Your exploration of the Ring Road continues, and today, you’ll explore stunning waterfalls, black sand beaches, and glacier lagoons found along the coast of southern Iceland. You’ll end the day at accommodations under Vatnajökull, Europe’s largest glacier.

Highlights:

  • Seljalandsfoss & Skógafoss Waterfalls
  • Reynisfjara Black Sand Beach
  • Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon & Diamond Beach
  • 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 Hiking in Skaftafell Nature Reserve: Easy glacier hike, suitable for most people. No previous experience is needed. The tour includes an English-speaking glacier guide, the use of a helmet, crampons, an ice axe, and other necessary safety equipment. Minimum age is 8 years.
  • 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 the use of lifejackets. No age limit.
  • 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 the use of floatation overalls and lifejackets. The minimum age is 10, and children must also be taller than 130 cm (4’3”).
Mt. Vestrahorn on Stokknes Cape in southeastern Icelandic coast during sunset. The epic pink sky reflected in the clear water.

Day 8 – The Remote East Iceland

Today, you’ll drive the winding roads of Iceland’s eastern fjords. However, before leaving South Iceland behind, stop at the Stokksnes Peninsula to snap a photograph of the beautiful Mt. Vestrahorn and the surrounding black sand beach. You’ll spend the night in or near Egilsstaðir town.

Highlights:

  • Stokksnes Peninsula & Mt. Vestrahorn
  • Hallormsstaðaskógur Forrest
  • Egilsstaðir Town
  • 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, which can also be rented onsite. No minimum age.
Two people standing in front of the massive Dettifoss Waterfall in North Iceland.

Day 9 – The Diamond Circle

On this day, you’ll explore the Diamond Circle sightseeing route. Start the day by heading North, stopping at Europe’s most powerful waterfall, Dettifoss, before exploring the stunning horseshoe-shaped canyon, Ásbyrgi. Then, it is off to the charming town of Húsavík, known as the ‘Whale Watching Capital of Europe.’

Highlights:

  • Dettifoss Waterfall
  • Ásbyrgi Canyon
  • Húsavík Town
  • Whale and Puffin Watching RIB Boat Tour: Explore the diverse marine life in-depth on a RIB Boat Tour. You’ll search for both the mighty whales and the adorable puffins on this tour. Included on this tour is a professional guide and warm safety overalls. Minimum age is 7 years.
  • Whale Watching Tour: Board a boat at Húsavík’s harbor and head to sea searching for the gentle giants of Skjálfandi Bay: the whales. Included are 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.
  • 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 a swimsuit and a towel, but those can also be rented onsite. No minimum age.
A man standing in front of a steaming fumarol in Hverir Geothermal Region in the Lake Myvatn Area, North Iceland.

Day 10 – Lake Mývatn

The area around Lake Mývatn was created in a series of volcanic eruptions some 2,300 years ago. Today, lava fields, pseudocraters, and geothermal regions dominate the landscape. After breakfast, head out and explore this fascinating region. At the end of the day, make your way to North Iceland’s largest town, Akureyri.

Highlights:

  • Námaskarð Geothermal Area
  • Dimmuborgir Lava Field
  • Goðafoss Waterfall
  • 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 are available to purchase for those over 20 years of age.
A boat in front of a green house in Siglufjörður, North Iceland. Snow-capped mountain in the background.

Day 11 – The Troll Peninsula

Now, it’s time to leave Akureyri behind to explore what else the northern part of this island has to offer. Tröllaskagi — or the Troll Peninsula — is a mountainous region known for its beautiful nature and charismatic towns. At the end of the day, head West, where you’ll find the town of Blönduós. Here, you will spend the night.

Highlights:

  • Siglufjörður Town
  • Hofsós Village
  • Hvítserkur Rock
  • Whale Watching Tour: Head to sea to search for the gentle whales that make the waters around Akureyri their home. Included are 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.
  • Horse Riding Tour: Meet the friendly Icelandic Horse. Includes 1-1.5 hour guided horseback ride with a specially trained guide. Included is the use of riding helmets, boots & rainwear. Minimum age is 8 years.
  • Beer Spa: Soak in hops and yeast at the Beer Spa! Single and double tubs are 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.
Colorful sunrise at Mt Kirkjufell on Iceland's Snæfellsnes Peninsula.

Day 12 – The Snæfellsnes Peninsula

Today, you’ll make your way to Snæfellsnes Peninsula, a 90 km (55 mi) stretch of land known as ‘Iceland in miniature’ because of the diverse attractions found there. Lava fields, black pebble beaches, waterfalls, and mountains all lie under the watchful eye of Snæfellsjökull Glacier.

Highlights:

  • Mt. Kirkjufell
  • Djúpalónssandur Beach
  • Lóndrangar Rocks
  • Whale Watching Tour: 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 is 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 that 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 pulls up the nets and allows guests to try out fresh scallops and sea urchins. Bring warm clothes. No minimum age.
Water flowing from a lava field and into a blue river, forming Hraunfossar Waterfall in Iceland.

Day 13 – The Wonders of West Iceland

Now it is time to head back to the city, but not without discovering what wonders West Iceland has in store for you. This region has many hidden gems, such as Gerðuberg Cliffs, the historical Reykholt village, and the stunning waterfalls Hraunfossar and Barnafoss.

Highlights:

  • Gerðuberg Cliffs
  • Hraunfossar & Barnafoss Waterfalls
  • Deildartunguhver Hot Spring
  • 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 are a guided tour, transportation from the base camp up the glacier, and free wifi on the glacier shuttle. No age limit.
  • Viðgelmir Lava Cave: One of the largest caves in Iceland. The tour includes an English-speaking guide and the 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 must be able to hike for 45-50 on uneven surfaces. 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.
back view of young woman relaxing in the Blue Lagoon, Iceland

Day 14 – Departure

Sadly, it is time to bid farewell to this land of ice and fire. You’ve had quite an adventure these past two weeks, and we hope you’ve had a fantastic time. When it is time to leave, you’ll head back out on the lava fields of the Reykjanes Peninsula to the airport, where you will drop off the car before check-in.

Highlights:

  • Hallgrímskirkja Church
  • Harpa Concert Hall
  • Laugavegur Shopping Street
  • 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.
  • FlyOver Iceland: Soar over the entire island, seeing Iceland’s most spectacular sceneries with the latest 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 must be at least 102 cm (3’4″) to participate.
  • 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.

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

Map for Circle of Iceland: Summer Self-Drive Tour w/Guided Highland Hike

Good to know

  • The itinerary for both the 4-day trekking tour and the 10-Day Self-Drive are dependent upon road and weather conditions. 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. Also, note that the itinerary may have to be rearranged to fit your arrival date and time better.
  • 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.
  • Included in the 4-Day Highland Tour are all meals from lunch on your first day in the Highlands to lunch on your last day there. If you have any dietary restrictions, please let us know during the booking process. 
  • Note that you will be hiking for approximately 6-7 hours off-trail each day, so some level of physical fitness is required. The maximum altitude does not exceed 1,000 m (3280 ft), and the change in elevation is never more than 300 meters (984 ft). You will only carry a light bag containing what you need for the hike; the rest of the luggage will be transported to the camps in a 4×4 vehicle.
  • Participants in the 4-Day Highland Tour are expected to help out throughout the journey; this includes prepping meals, washing dishes, and setting up camp.

What to bring

  • Warm and waterproof clothes
  • Thermal underwear
  • Warm mid-layer
  • Hats and gloves
  • Extra woolen socks or hiking socks
  • Fast-drying clothes (trousers, shirts, jumpers) – no cotton
  • Good, comfortable hiking shoes; waterproof and suitable for both rocky terrain and snow
  • Sandals with straps for crossing rivers
  • Good sleeping bag, a cotton sheet for the hut’s mattress, and a pillow
  • Water bottle
  • Swimsuit, towel, and toiletries
  • Camera
  • Driving license
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