iceland self drive tour

Deals of the Week   Solo, Never Alone   Up to 50% OFF

Self Drive Tours & Trips in Iceland

• Choose from 50+ Iceland tours
• 42 verified reviews from TourRadar travelers
• 24/7 customer support

10 best Self Drive Iceland tour packages

Compiled by

Nadine Iceland travel expert at TourRadar

12 Days Self-drive | Everything you must see in Iceland Ring Road Tour

10 days self-drive | in-depth iceland ring road tour, 5 day self-drive tour | golden circle self-drive, 8 day self-drive tour | ring road highlights, 5 day - fire & ice, iceland expedition: northern lights, blue lagoon, and reykjavík | group tour and self-drive road trip, 7 days self-drive | golden circle, south coast, snæfellsnes and reykjavik (winter), 6 days self-drive | reykjavik, golden circle and south iceland tour (winter), 8 days self-drive | around iceland ring road tour, 5 days self-drive | golden circle, south coast (winter).

“This was a trip of a lifetime! It could not have been easier and I really appreciated that everything was arranged so perfectly in advance.” Deborah, traveled in June 2024

• Sightseeing
• Relax at the Blue Lagoon with a drink
• Spot seals at Ytri Tunga beach
• Explore Snæfellsnes's iconic Kirkjufell

“Every question I had beforehand and during the trip was quickly responded to. Highlights were zodiac tour of lagoon, glacier hike and puffins.” Ann, traveled in May 2024

• Pick up your car at Keflavik Airport
• Explore Deildartunguhver hot spring
• Visit historical Reykholt and waterfalls

• Christmas & New Year
• Explore Reykjanes Peninsula's unique geology
• Relax in the Blue Lagoon's soothing waters
• Visit iconic waterfalls and black sand beaches

“They booked some amazing little hotels and Bed and Breakfasts that I'm not sure we ever would have known about.” Rita, traveled in April 2023

• Visit Thingvellir and see Europe meet North America

• The Golden Circle - Gullfoss, Geysir & Thingvellir
• Jokulsarlon Glacier Lagoon
• Vatnajokull Glacier

“Exceptional hospitality and arrangements. Luxury and adventure at best.” Charul, traveled in March 2023

• Drive a 4x4 across Langjökull glacier
• Snowmobile on Iceland's second largest glacier
• Explore historic Thingvellir National Park

“Iceland is incredible and the sights included in the tour were amazing. It's much less expensive to book directly with the lagoons and other attractions.” Mallory, traveled in September 2022

• Relax in the geothermal Blue Lagoon
• Explore Snæfellsnes and its charming villages
• Discover the iconic Kirkjufell and its waterfall

“Really loved how this made the trip so much more effortless. Did not have any surprises with booking, rentals or check-in.” Jose, traveled in March 2023

• Relax in the geothermal waters of Blue Lagoon
• Explore the tectonic plates at Þingvellir
• Witness Strokkur geyser's frequent eruptions

“It was a tremendous amount of help to have an itinerary to follow. Iceland is definetly a country worth visiting and experience.” Ovidiu, traveled in May 2024

• Watch whales at Eyjafjordur bay
• Explore the ice at Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon

“Everything went so smoothly and Marina Travel completely booked everything for us, from the hotel to the rental car!” Vanessa, traveled in November 2021

• Explore Þingvellir National Park
• Hike behind Seljalandsfoss waterfall

More about Iceland

Discover TourRadar

Self-drive tours of Iceland

Discover the Land of Fire and Ice your way with these Iceland self-drive tours. Your package includes superb-value car rental, accommodation, and a detailed itinerary. And it’s all backed up by our Best Price Guarantee.

• Great choice of itineraries around Iceland
• Stop as often as you like, wherever you like
• Second driver included as standard
• Never get lost with unlimited in-car Wi-Fi

30 trips found

About our self-drive Iceland trips

• Your choice of rental car and accommodation
• Ability to start your trip on any date, winter or summer
• 24/7 helpline for your whole Iceland vacation
• Best Price Guarantee on all self-drive tours

Don’t take our word for it

See what hundreds of fellow travelers have to say about their trips with Iceland Tours.

FAQs about Iceland self-drive packages

What is the best self-drive tour of iceland.

Self-drive tours give you the flexibility to go where you like, when you like. This means there’s a whole world of possibilities and no one tour that’s the best.

The right trip for you will depend on how many days you have to spend in Iceland and what you want to see. You might be thinking about driving the whole Ring Road , or just zooming in on a specific region. The choice is yours.

Here’s an idea of what you could get up to on an Iceland driving tour:

• Watch icebergs pass you by at Jökulsárlón glacier lagoon
• Chase the Northern Lights in the darkness of winter
• Explore the Snæfellsnes peninsula or 'Iceland in Miniature'
• Go on an ice caving excursion under a glacier
• Spend an afternoon unwinding in the Blue Lagoon
• Check out the unusual landscapes of North Iceland
• Sample local cuisine at towns and villages around the country
• Follow the winding coastline of the Westfjords region
• Hop aboard a boat to join a whale watching tour
• Spot magnificent waterfalls on a tour of Iceland’s south coast

Start by browsing the self-drive packages above. Play around with the filters to narrow down your search until you find the one for you.

Is it safe to drive in Iceland in winter?

You can definitely safely enjoy a road trip in Iceland in wintertime. Although the weather might sometimes present a few challenges, most of the time major roads are clear and accessible.

Snowplows regularly clear the roads in winter, especially in towns and near popular attractions. That said, heavy snowstorms may sometimes mean you have to take a slightly different route than planned.

One of the benefits of booking with Iceland Tours is that we can quickly update your itinerary should the weather get in the way. All you need to do is call our in-country 24/7 helpline, and we’ll take care of the rest. This means it’ll take more than snow and wind to slow you down!

If you’re not confident about driving in wintry conditions, fear not. We’ve got multi-day tours from Reykjavík , group tours , and privately guided tours . On all of these trip types, you’ll let someone else do the driving.

How many days does it take to drive around Iceland?

If you want to drive the Ring Road, you can technically do it in as little as 2 days. But you probably wouldn’t get much sleep or have much time to enjoy the scenery!

We recommend at least 7 days for a Ring Road trip . This will give you long enough to see all the main attractions. If you want to spend more time in each location though, 10–14 days road-tripping in Iceland would be best.

On a longer trip, you can add in regions off the Ring Road like the Westfjords or Snæfellsnes peninsula . We offer itineraries up to 19 days long if you want to see the whole country.

With any length trip, you have the option to add extra days when booking online.

What is the best time of year for an Iceland self-drive trip?

Summer is the most popular time of year for a self-drive trip in Iceland. The months of June , July , and August offer the best weather and plenty of sunlight, meaning you can pack more into each day.

Winter self-drive trips are also an option, and great for hunting down the Northern Lights. If that’s your thing, then a trip in October , November , or December would be ideal.

The coldest months in Iceland are January and February . In the depths of winter, we’d recommend a shorter self-drive itinerary in a specific region.

Springtime offers better weather and it’s generally a quieter time of year. If you want to beat the crowds, a trip in March , April , or May is perfect. Check out this article about Iceland in spring to find out more.

What’s included with your self-drive trips?

All of our self-drive tour packages include the following as standard:

• Rental car of your choice, with unlimited mileage
• Basic liability insurance coverage
• Collision damage waiver
• Authorization for second driver
• Unlimited in-car Wi-Fi
• Accommodation level of your choice
• Breakfast every day
• Detailed itinerary crafted by local travel experts
• 24/7 helpline in Iceland, just in case you need it

When you book your vacation on our website, you’ll be able to choose your preferred rental car and accommodation level.

You can see what vehicles are available on this car rental page .

How do you drive in Iceland?

The rules of the road in Iceland are similar to most other countries, although there are some local quirks that you might not be familiar with.

Iceland drives on the right and steering wheels are on the left side of the car. Distances and speed limits are given in kilometers only.

Roundabouts are very common in Iceland, especially in towns. If you’re not familiar with these, make sure you understand how to give way (yield) to other traffic.

In the countryside, you might encounter sheep on the road, or even reindeer in East Iceland. You may also come across gravel roads, single-lane bridges, and blind summits.

For all the info on how to handle these, see this guide to driving in Iceland .

Do I need a permit to drive in Iceland?

Most people won’t need a permit to drive in Iceland. You just need to have held your driver’s license for at least 1 year at the time of rental. Also, you need to be at least 20 years old, or 23 years old to hire a jeep or van.

If your license is in a non-Latin script, such as Chinese or Arabic, you will need to apply for an international driving permit in your home country.

What kind of accommodation is included?

On a self-drive package with Iceland Tours, you can choose from 3 levels of accommodation:

• Budget – Guesthouses and country hotels, with shared bathrooms
• Comfort – Hotels or guesthouses of around 3 stars, with private bathrooms
• Quality – Hotels or guesthouses of around 4 stars, with private bathrooms

No matter which accommodation level you pick, breakfast is included. Read more about the differences between the levels on this accommodation page .

Feel like getting closer to nature? Check out these self-drive camping tours .

Are flights included with my package?

Flights aren’t included with our vacation packages. We believe this gives you the most flexibility and access to the lowest prices. Once you have an idea of when you want to travel, you can look for flights online.

You can fly directly to Iceland from major cities in Europe and North America. If you’re traveling from somewhere else, you might need to get a connecting flight.

There are multiple daily flights from hubs like London Heathrow and Amsterdam Schiphol, so you should be able to find a connection that makes sense for you.

How can I book with Iceland Tours?

First, take a look at the Iceland self-drive packages on this page. Try using the filters to narrow down your search by season, budget, and attractions.

Tip: You can use the heart icon on any package to favorite it. That way, you can compare similar packages or just save the ones you like for later.

Once you’ve found the self-drive trip for you, follow the steps on the package page to complete your booking. On our website you can:

• Select your dates and add extra days in Reykjavík
• Pick your preferred rental car and accommodation level
• Add extra activities and day trips
• Secure your booking with just a 5% deposit

If you need a bit of help along the way, use the live chat in the bottom-right corner of any page.

Can I choose my own travel dates?

Yes, you can choose any start date you like for a self-drive tour! As you set the pace on a road trip, you don’t have to work to a fixed departure schedule.

Can I customize my Iceland driving tour?

Definitely! When you book a self-drive tour on our website, you can pick your rental car and accommodation level of choice.

What’s more, you have the option to add extra days in Reykjavík at the start or end of your trip. You can fill these days with activities and excursions by bus, or simply spend the time enjoying the city.

If you want to customize your trip even more, get in touch and we’d be happy to help. Just so you know, there’s an additional fee for this service. See our terms and conditions for all the details.

When should I book my trip?

It’s best to book your trip at least a few weeks before you travel. This gives us enough time to organize your preferred accommodation and itinerary. For this reason, we’re unable to accept bookings with less than 1 week’s notice.

In the summer, which is the most popular time of year, booking a few months ahead is a good idea. In certain parts of the countryside, accommodation options are more limited and can be booked up well ahead of your trip.

What do I need to pack for a self-drive trip?

In Iceland, you can expect all weathers no matter what time of year you visit. With that in mind, it’s good to make sure you’ve got everything you need to stay cozy, warm, and dry.

Here’s a packing list to help you get ready for your trip:

• Tough, waterproof walking boots
• Thermal underlayers
• Sweaters or fleeces
• Waterproof raincoat
• Warm winter jacket
• Scarf, hat, and gloves
• Swimwear (for pools and hot springs)
• Lip salve and moisturizer

For more tips on what to bring with you, see this Iceland packing list .

Explore ways to travel

Get inspired, 5 reasons to book with iceland tours.

Iceland Tours is a Reykjavík-based travel agency offering travelers incredible experiences in the place we call home.

Planning a Trip to Iceland

Plan your trip to Iceland like a pro with these expert tips.

11 Best Things to See & Do on Iceland’s South Coast

Uncover the best things to see & do on Iceland’s spectacular south coast.

Iceland in Summer vs Winter

Which season is best to visit? Get the lowdown.

13 Best Places to Visit in Iceland

Don’t miss these 13 best spots to go in the Land of Fire and Ice.

Best Summer Self Drive Tours in Iceland

Select starting location

Select dates

Add travelers

Summer Self Drive Tours

Refine the results by using the filters

10-Day Self-Drive Tour of the Complete Ring Road of Iceland with Top Attractions & Snaefellsnes

Incredible 1-week Summer Self-Drive Tour of the Ring Road of Iceland & Golden Circle

13-Day Self-Drive Tour of the Ring Road of Iceland with the Snaefellsnes Peninsula & the Westfjords

Epic 2-Week Self-Drive Tour of the Ring Road of Iceland & the Westfjords

One Week Summer Self-Drive Tour of Iceland’s West & South Coasts with Waterfalls & Glaciers

Complete 10-Day Ring Road Self-Drive Tour of Iceland

Extraordinary 12-Day Self-Drive Tour of the Complete Ring Road of Iceland with National Parks

Unforgettable 1-Week Self-Drive Tour of West and South Iceland with the Golden Circle

Unforgettable 11-Day Self-Drive Tour of the Complete Ring Road of Iceland & the East Fjords

In-Depth 10-Day Summer Self-Drive Tour of the Ring Road of Iceland with Waterfalls & Glaciers

7-Day Self-Drive Tour of the Complete Ring Road of Iceland

In-Depth 11-Day Summer Self-Drive Tour of the Complete Ring Road with Waterfalls & Hot Springs

Scenic 5-Day Self-Drive Tour of Iceland with Reykjavik, the Blue Lagoon & Jokulsarlon Glacier Lagoon

6-Day Self-Drive Holiday in Iceland with the Golden Circle, Blue Lagoon & Jokulsarlon Glacier Lagoon

Express 6-Day Summer Self-Drive Tour of the Complete Ring Road of Iceland

8-Day Self-Drive Tour of Iceland's Ring Road with In-Depth South Coast Exploration

Slow-Paced 10-Day Summer Self-Drive Tour of the Snaefellsnes Peninsula, Golden Circle & South Coast

9-Day Summer Self-Drive Tour of Iceland’s Ring Road with South Coast Highlights

7 Day Budget Self Drive Tour of Iceland’s Snaefellsnes Peninsula & the South Coast

Ultimate 8-Day Self-Drive Tour of Iceland’s Game of Thrones Shooting Locations

11-Day Adventure Road Trip Along The Ring Road of Iceland

Customizable 8-Day Summer Self-Drive Tour of Iceland's Westfjords & Snaefellsnes Peninsula

Ultimate 19-Day Self-Drive Tour Around Iceland

Customizable 12-Day Self-Drive Ring Road Tour

Explore an unequalled wealth of tours and packages

Vacation Packages in Iceland

Self drive tours in iceland, tour calendar, nature tours in iceland, adventure tours in iceland, cheap bus tours in iceland, top tour destinations in iceland, frequently asked questions, what is the weather like in iceland during the summer, what are the daylight hours during the summer in iceland, do i need a 4x4 to drive the ring road during my summer self-drive tour in iceland, can i extend my stay in reykjavik by one night at the end of my summer self-drive tour in iceland, if i wish to extend my stay, when do i have to return the car to the airport, will i see the northern lights during my summer self-drive tour in iceland, i noticed that the car insurance is standard. can i get a full coverage for my road trip in iceland instead, can i change the activities on my road trip in iceland after i’ve made the initial payment, is it safe to drive in iceland during the summer, is it possible to book a 4, 5, or 6-day self-drive tour in iceland instead, we are a group of 6 to 10 people. how many people can one vehicle accommodate for our summer self-drive tour in iceland, how long is the ring road and how are the road conditions during the summer in iceland.

Download Iceland’s biggest travel marketplace to your phone to manage your entire trip in one place

Scan this QR code with your phone camera and press the link that appears to add Iceland’s biggest travel marketplace into your pocket. Enter your phone number or email address to receive an SMS or email with the download link.

Top things to do in Iceland

Book your complete trip with the best companies only

Explore an Ice Cave

Find the Northern Lights

Go on a Road Trip

Do the Golden Circle

Visit the Blue Lagoon

See the Glacier Lagoon

South Coast Tours

Visit Reykjavik

HIDDEN ICELAND

Come & Find the Best of Iceland

DELVE INTO OUR PREMIUM SELF DRIVE TOURS

Hidden iceland’s premium self drive tours are created with your comfort and ease in mind. designed by one of our expert travel experts, for travellers seeking the best of iceland., our self drive tours are designed with quality and a high level of service in mind. allow one of our travel experts to plan and book all parts of your holiday, and support you along the way so that you can focus on enjoying your trip, stress-free. our travel experts will create your personalised itinerary , just for you nothing is ever ‘off the shelf’. everything that’s included has been hand-picked and approved by hidden iceland. whether that’s your remote stay in a luxurious country hotel, your adventurous glacier hike or tranquil horse ride, or even just a great restaurant recommendation. we’ve meticulously trialled every aspect of your experience. we know you’ll love the finished version., our self drive services are a summer affair, only on offer between april 15th—october 15th each year. if you are looking to travel outside these dates, consider joining us on our small group tours or enquire about our private tour packages ., your premium self drive provider, full service: when booking your self-drive adventures with hidden iceland, you can be sure that you’ll have all bases covered. our team of travel experts book all accommodation, activities, and vehicle hire. furthermore, we make meal arrangements—or provide you with our recommendations for each area while on the tour., premium accommodation options, premium:  primarily 4-star hotels, offering high-quality amenities and services, comfortable and stylish rooms, and excellent locations with easy access to attractions., luxury:  combination of 4-star and 5-star hotels and lodges, providing superior amenities and exceptional service, elegant and spacious rooms, and often feature on-site fine dining and wellness facilities., exclusive accommodation & private lodges:  exclusively 5-star hotels and private lodges, offering unmatched luxury and personalised service, luxurious suites and private accommodations, with top-tier amenities including private pools, spas, and gourmet dining options., on the ground support: when you’re in the country, we’re here to support you at every corner. iceland’s weather changes quickly, and we’ll be on hand if something in your itinerary needs to change, too. or if you just want to add something extra along the way. you can contact us between 8am and 7:30pm each day by phone or email, with emergency numbers provided outside these hours., step-by-step guide:  once your customized self-drive tour has been booked and paid for, you’ll receive an in-depth, step-by-step guide in an app which can be used on your mobile. the app includes information about all the locations, timings, driving distance and any special considerations, allowing you to sit back and enjoy the tour. the app seamlessly works with google maps, making navigating from one location to the next a breeze..

Explore sample itineraries

.image-ultimate-map-absulate{ position: absolute; width: 100%; height: 100%; top: 0; } .image-ultimate-map-absulate img{ width: 100%; height: 100%; } .image-ultimate-map-absulate a{ text-decoration: none important; } .image-ultimate-hover-58{ position: relative; width: 100%; height: 100%; -webkit-transition: all 0.35s ease-in-out; -moz-transition: all 0.35s ease-in-out; transition: all 0.35s ease-in-out; overflow: hidden; } .image-ultimate-hover-58 .iheu-img { position: absolute; top: 0; bottom: 0; left: 0; right: 0; width: 100%; height: 100%; } .image-ultimate-hover-58 .iheu-info { position: absolute; top: 0; bottom: 0; left: 0; right: 0; width: 100%; height: 100%; text-align: center; -webkit-backface-visibility: hidden; backface-visibility: hidden; display: table; z-index: 1; } .image-ultimate-hover-animation-58 { animation-duration: 0s; } .image-ultimate-hover-58, .image-ultimate-hover-58 .iheu-img, .image-ultimate-hover-58 a .iheu-img, .image-ultimate-hover-58 .iheu-img:before, .image-ultimate-hover-58 a .iheu-img:before, .image-ultimate-hover-58 .iheu-img img, .image-ultimate-hover-58 a .iheu-img img, .image-ultimate-hover-58 .iheu-info, .image-ultimate-hover-58 a .iheu-info{ border-radius: 5%; -moz-border-radius: 5%; -webkit-border-radius: 5%; transition: 0.5s; } .image-ultimate-hover-padding-58{ padding: 10px; } .image-ultimate-map-58 { max-width: 375px; width: 100%; margin: 0 auto; position: relative; } .image-ultimate-map-58:after { padding-bottom: 125.06666666667%; content: ""; display: block; } .image-ultimate-hover-58 .iheu-img:before { position: absolute; display: block; content: ''; width: 100%; height: 100%; box-shadow: inset 0 0 0 0px rgba(255, 255, 255, 0.51); } .image-ultimate-hover-58 .iheu-img { width: 100%; float: left; } .image-ultimate-hover-58 .iheu-info { background: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0.51); opacity: 0; -webkit-transition: all 0.8s ease-in-out; -moz-transition: all 0.8s ease-in-out; transition: all 0.8s ease-in-out; } .image-ultimate-hover-58 .iheu-data h3, .image-ultimate-hover-58 .iheu-data p, .image-ultimate-hover-58 .iheu-data .iheu-button{ -webkit-transition: all 0.25s ease 0.25s; -o-transition: all 0.25s ease 0.25s; -moz-transition: all 0.25s ease 0.25s; transition: all 0.25s ease 0.25s; } .image-ultimate-hover-58 .iheu-info .iheu-data{ display: table-cell; vertical-align: middle;text-align: center; padding: 1px; } .image-ultimate-hover-58 .iheu-info h3 { font-size: 20px; font-weight: 600; padding-bottom: 0px; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-top: 0; line-height: 120%; font-family: "open sans"; display: inline-block; color: #ffffff; } .image-ultimate-hover-58 .iheu-info p { font-size: 16px; font-weight: 300; margin-bottom: 20px; margin-top: 0; line-height: 120%; width: 100%; float: left; font-family: "open sans"; color: #ffffff; } .image-ultimate-hover-58 a.iheu-button{ padding: 10px 10px; -webkit-border-radius: 5px; -moz-border-radius: 5px; border-radius: 5px; font-weight: 300; font-size: 14px; font-family: "open sans"; background: rgba(126, 0, 158, 1); color: #ffffff; text-decoration: none; display:table; margin: 0 auto; } .image-ultimate-hover-58 a.iheu-button:hover{ background: rgba(255, 255, 255, 1); color: #7e009e; } .image-ultimate-hover-58:hover .iheu-info, .image-ultimate-hover-58.iheu-touch .iheu-info{ opacity: 1; -webkit-backface-visibility: visible; backface-visibility: visible; } jquery(".image-ultimate-hover-padding-58").addclass("iheu-hidden"); var animation_elements_58 = jquery(".image-ultimate-hover-padding-58"); function check_if_in_view_58() { var window_height = jquery(window).height(); var window_top_position = jquery(window).scrolltop(); var window_bottom_position = (window_top_position + window_height); jquery.each(animation_elements_58, function () { var element = jquery(this); var element_height = element.outerheight(); var element_top_position = element.offset().top; var element_bottom_position = (element_top_position + element_height); //check to see if this current container is within viewport if ((element_bottom_position >= window_top_position) && (element_top_position jquery(window).trigger("scroll");, tour highlights, ready to make your dream trip come true,  please provide as much information as possible in your submission. while we strive to respond to all tour requests within 7 business days, if you have an urgent inquiry or wish to provide additional details, feel free to reach out to us directly., how much does this premium service cost, and are there up front fees, when will i receive my final itinerary, would it be cheaper booking everything myself, can i get an itemised quote for everything that's included, do you offer itineraries that include camping or camper vans.

Your true Icelandic winter adventure awaits. Book your tour now!

• Language/Currency EN Language EN English DE German CN Chinese $ USD ISK ISK $ USD € EUR CA$ CAD £ GBP

Self Drive Tours in Iceland

West & South Iceland in 7 Days

Self-guided tour of glaciers, beaches, and scenic routes.

Explore Iceland's stunning landscapes at your own pace with this week-long road trip.

Start your journey by driving to Snaefellsnes Peninsula , where you’ll see cascading waterfalls and black-sand beaches. Then, head to the Golden Circle and learn about Iceland’s iconic natural landmarks. Journey down to the South Coast of Iceland . Here, you’ll see volcanoes, explore remote settlements inhabited by a handful of people, and hike on the Sólheimajökull glacier .

You won’t need to worry about planning. We'll take care of every detail, allowing you to enjoy the ultimate freedom. Plus, you’ll receive exclusive tips, expert recommendations, and much more in all these regions.

• Snaefellsnes Peninsula
• Reynisfjara Black Sand Beach
• Glacier hiking on Sólheimajökull glacier
• The Golden Circle
• Authentic villages (Vik, Hella, and more)
• 9+ breathtaking waterfalls (Gullfoss, Skogafoss, Barnafoss and many more)
• Eyjafjallajokull Volcano
• Jokulsarlon Glacier Lagoon
• Secret Lagoon & Blue Lagoon
• Accommodation for 6 nights with breakfast
• Rental car for 7 days (w. Collision Damage Waiver, Personal Accident Insurance & Theft Protection)
• Glacier hike on Sólheimajökull's Glacier
• Detailed itinerary & information package

What to bring

• Warm layers
• Waterproof clothing
• Hiking boots
• Drivers license

Tour Snapshot

• No Booking Fees
• Fast & Secure Payment
• Best Price Guarantee

Spend a week on a road trip along Iceland’s South Coast and the Snæfellsnes Peninsula with our 7-day self-drive tour. You'll explore iconic sights such as the Jökulsárlón glacier lagoon, majestic waterfalls, and bubbling hot springs.

This adventure also includes the famous Golden Circle, where you’ll witness the powerful Strokkur geyser, the stunning Gullfoss waterfall, and the historical Þingvellir National Park.

When you start the tour, you'll receive a detailed map highlighting your route, a day-by-day itinerary, and a self-drive handbook to ensure the best experience. Enjoy the freedom and flexibility to discover Iceland at your own pace.

Check out the details below for the sights and activities you’ll get to enjoy.

Day 1 - The Snaefellsnes Peninsula

On your first day, you will pick up your car and make the scenic journey toward the Snaefellsnes Peninsula. Colorful houses of Reykjavik, gorgeous Icelandic countryside, a stop at the old Akranes lighthouse – you are off to a great start.

The towns of Husafell and Reykholt are up next. The former is known for ice caving adventures you can book on location and the latter is an intellectual center of Iceland with top notch geothermal baths. In between the towns, your itinerary will guide you to two waterfalls with milky waters and introduce you to some fascinating folklore tales surrounding them. Last up, the most powerful geothermal hot spring in Europe will crown your first day on the road.

Your accommodation for the evening will be in a hotel near Ytri Tunga, a famous seal colony, surrounded by the magical scenery of the Snaefellsnes Peninsula.

Day Highlights

• Old Akranes Lighthouse
• Hraunfossar & Barnafoss waterfalls
• Deildartunguhver

Accommodation

Hotel Borgarnes

Day 2 - the snaefellsnes peninsula & west iceland.

You’ll start your day with a great breakfast, which will set the tone for an entire day of cascading waterfalls, imperious mountains and coal-black beaches. The first stop, Ytri Tunga, will treat you to wild beaches and friendly seals. Nearby you can discover two secluded villages and a large statue of a half-man half-troll, commonly found in Icelandic sagas.

As you pick your way along the jagged cliffs, you will soon find yourself at Londrangar, a craggy rock formation reminiscent of a castle. It looms over a black-pebble beach and an abandoned fishing area, both of which serve the atmosphere.

Your remaining drive along the coast features green meadows, mighty glaciers and the famous stratovolcano described in Jules Verne’s Journey to the Centre of the Earth . You’ll make your final stop at Kirkjufell mountain and waterfall as well as a few other attractions before you get to rest in a comfy bed.

• Arnarstapi & Hellnar villages
• Londrangar & Djupalonssandur beach
• Mt. Kirkjufell
• Accmmodation

Fosshotel Stykkisholmur

Day 3 - hvalfjörður & the golden circle.

The hotel will treat you to a traditional Icelandic breakfast to kickstart your journey . You’ll pass the town of Borgarnes and visit the second-highest waterfall in Iceland before you begin the famous Golden Circle. Thingvellir National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site with otherworldly topography, is your first of the three Golden Circle stops.

The meeting place of the first Icelandic parliament and Mid-Atlantic Ridge are located there as well. To put things into perspective, you’ll see the origins of the world’s oldest continuously running democratic institution and two tectonic plates moving apart.

As you proceed along the route, you’ll visit a village famous for geothermal pools, the Secret Lagoon, and the iconic Geyser area, a phenomenon so stunning it gave birth to the English word geyser.

You’ll close the Golden Circle with the roaring Gullfoss Waterfall. If you make it there early, you can book a glacier snowmobiling tour on the Langjokull Glacier for an additional fee.

• Thingvellir National Park
• Gullfoss Waterfall

Hotel Hella

Day 4 - south coast & glacier hike.

On day four, your adventure starts with a nutritious breakfast. As you travel toward the South Coast, you’ll catch a glimpse of the capricious Hekla Volcano and visit Hella and Hvolsvöllur villages.

Today lots of waterfalls will be visited, the first two feature water falling from angles you didn’t know were possible. The highlight of the first waterfall is a cave that lets you see the waterfall from behind and the second waterfall is hiding in a sheer canyon, making them both outstanding sights.

After mesmerizing waterfalls, you'll reach the Sólheimajökull glacier - where your glacier adventure takes place. Our expert glacier guides will wait for you at the booking office and take you out to discover the pristine snow and vast, white landscapes with black volcanic ashes.

Next comes another waterfall, the glorious Skogafoss with its cascading glacial water. Breathtaking panoramas come as an award, but before long you’ll have to start making your way to the main highlight, two coal-black beaches and jaw-dropping lava rock formations.

• Seljalandsfoss & Gljúfrabúi waterfalls
• Glacier Hike
• Skogafoss Waterfall
• Glacier hiking tour

Day 5 - Glaciers and Lagoons

You’ll start your morning by a picturesque drive featuring moss-covered lava fields and black sand beaches. The route will take you through the dramatic countryside all the way to Skaftafell/Vatnajökull National Park.

In Skaftafell/Vatnajökull National Park you can stop at the visitor center and continue your adventure by going for a little hike to Svartifoss waterfall surrounded by black lava columns. Ice-cold meltwater from Svinafellsjokull glacier tumbles down 20 meters (80 ft) over a cliff and feeds the famous Svartifoss waterfall.

The legendary Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon and the Diamond Beach are the last stop. With floating bright blue icebergs that contrast against the black beaches, this sight will crown what was already an eventful day.

• Skaftafell National Park & Svartifoss Waterfall
• Fjallsarlon Glacier Lagoon
• Diamond Beach & Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon

Adventure Hotel Geirland

Day 6 - south coast to selfoss.

Making your way home, you’ll spend your sixth day exploring more sights on the South Coast of Iceland. See rocks that earned a status as a natural monument. Enjoy the calmness of two waterfalls known only to the locals. 

After that, visit the Icelandic Grand Canyon. Following pre-designated paths, you will see moss-covered rocks and blue ice waters. The river that flows through the canyon excites and delights in equal measure.

Stop at two Icelandic towns. One is known for its contribution to shaping Iceland’s cultural landscape, the other for being a historical trading center and fishing town.

Spend the night at Selfoss. Explore it and rest up before the final day of your journey.

• Fjadrargljufur
• Stjórnarfoss & Systrafoss waterfalls
• Eldhraun lava field

Hotel Hvolsvollur

Day 7 - around reykjavik.

The itinerary of your last day on this self-drive is more flexible. You’ll get a bunch of suggestions you can pick and choose from depending on where and when you’re dropping off your car. They will include something for everyone’s taste, from the famous Kleifarvatn crater lake to a crack between two continents.

We suggest that you finish strong by visiting the Blue Lagoon. This landmark of Iceland’s spectacular nature will serve as the perfect way to relax and share memories of your trip while soaking in mineral-rich waters. Please note that the ticket to the Blue Lagoon is not included in the price of your tour.

• Blue Lagoon
• Selected towns and nature attractions

Please note

Your glacier hike on Sólheimajökull's outlet glacier is included in the specified price, but entry to the Blue Lagoon is not. You will need to book in advance at their website .

To offer the best price possible, this self-drive package is fixed and cannot be changed or altered. The package has been optimized for the best experience.

Practical Information

Detailed Itinerary Included

√ Detailed map of Iceland with all stops √ Easy-to-follow daily travel plans √ Mobile-friendly design √ Descriptions and photos for all major stops √ Approximate time needed at each stop √ Tips on the best nearby restaurants √ Exclusive locations not included in the tour description

Information about your rental car

Pick-up: Choose between pick-up locations at Keflavik International Airport (KEF) or Reykjavik City office in downtown Reykjavík. It is very centrally located and easy to reach on foot for those staying in downtown Reykjavik. Picking up from the downtown office is from 08:00-18:00.

For the best experience, we recommend that you pick your car up early on your arrival day and return it in the afternoon or evening on your last day.

Drop-off: Pick-up and drop-off are in the same location (changes only available upon request).

This package includes comfortable accommodation in prime locations. Breakfast is included, and each room features a private bathroom.

When booking for 2 or 4 persons, twin or double rooms will be provided. 

For bookings of 3 or 5 persons, a combination of double/twin rooms and triple rooms will be arranged. 

Additionally, a single room can also be arranged for an extra fee.

To ensure the best possible price and experience, this self-drive package is fixed and cannot be modified.

Rental car options

By default, the tour includes a mini/economy (Toyota Aygo or similar) vehicle option. However, when you make your booking, you can upgrade the vehicle to a Standard (Toyota Avensis or similar), Economy SUV (Dacia Duster or similar), or Full-Size SUV (Mitsubishi Pajero or similar) car model. 

Please note: All rental cars have automatic transmissions. If an automatic transmission is not available, the van option can come with a manual transmission.

Attractions map

What is a self-drive tour.

Self-drive tour is a package tour that includes accommodation, car rental and suggested itinerary. The tours are self-guided but we provide you with information to make sure you know where to go and what to see, as well as general practical information about Iceland.

Included with our tours are accommodation and car rental, as described for each tour, itinerary with suggested points of interest along the way, GPS points for each stop (accommodation, activities, points of interest), and a detailed self-drive handbook with lots of practical information.

Which hotels will we be staying in? What category are they?

We use a very varied mix of local accommodations.

Comfort rooms   are private rooms with private bathroom in guesthouses, hotels, motels, lodges, etc. Approximately 3-star rating.

Which type of vehicle do you recommend?

4WD vehicles are recommended during winter months (October – April) but it doesn’t need to be a jeep, it is safest to drive a vehicle that you are comfortable with so if you’re not used to driving large cars then a smaller, but 4WD, might be a better option. In summer any vehicle is good, depending on how many are traveling together, how much luggage you carry along and how much you’re willing to pay.

How much time will we spend in the car every day?

This depends on the itinerary, some are faster paced while others are more relaxed. Days can range from 200-400 km, though very few days exceed 350 km. Of course you are your own driver and guide while on a self drive tour so you are free to make detours as you wish.

What kind of insurance do I need?

It is always a good idea to make sure you have good travel insurance, as you never know what might happen while in a foreign country. Sure it costs a bit extra, but it can take a load off the mind and end up being totally worth it in case something should happen.

Take a look at what type of insurance is provided with your credit card, alternatively buy special travel insurance from an insurance provider.

As for the car rental, you can opt to buy extra insurance at the time of collecting the car. It may be wise to buy extra insurance such as windshield protection, as a cracked windshield from a stone being thrown off another car is among the most common incidents on Icelandic roads.

Other extra car insurances would be for example sand and ash protection, or additional insurance to lower the self-risk in case of an incident.

Can the itinerary be changed?

Our self drive adventures have been optimized for the best value experience, which includes doing some thrilling activities in the amazing Icelandic nature. As the packages are offered at the best possible price no partial refunds or modifications to the itinerary can be permitted. That includes opting out of an included activity and getting a refund for that activity. You can, of course, choose not to do the activity but as mentioned there would be no partial refunds of the package price.

What do I do when I have a problem while traveling?

You should contact the service provider in question: If there is a problem with the car, contact the car rental. If you have troubles finding the hotel (which shouldn’t happen as you will be provided with the address and GPS coordinates), you should call the hotel.

If you have questions about an activity, contact the activity provider. You will receive all the necessary contact information from us.

Can I add twin bed for my accommodation?

We cannot guarantee twin beds but a large majority of our hotels can accommodate twin bed arrangements and clients can contact the hotels directly after purchase to request a twin bed arrangement.

Have a question about one of our tours?

Arctic Adventures offers pick up service from selected Reykjavík pick up points. Note that you can always update your pick-up / drop-off location through our customer portal: https://my.adventures.is You can press the login button in your confirmation email for an easy login to the customer portal. If you experience an error with logging into the customer portal or can't find your booking, please contact us on Facebook Messenger, or send us a message here below. Chat with us on Facebook Messenger

Self-drive tour in Iceland

Discover Iceland at your own pace. With numerous stunning locations for adventure, embarking on self-drive tours in Iceland is among the finest ways to experience it. To enhance the smoothness and enjoyment of your trip, I'll assist you in crafting a customized plan that aligns with your individual preferences and needs.

One of the prime advantages of an Iceland self-drive tour is the opportunity to create a personalized itinerary tailored to your interests. Whether you're a nature enthusiast, a history buff, or an adventure seeker, Iceland caters to everyone.

Whether you're seeking classic sightseeing or aiming to combine it with activities like horse riding, glacier walks, snowmobiling, or caving, you're in the right place.

Embark on the ultimate adventure of freedom and flexibility with an Iceland self-drive tour. Uncover awe-inspiring landscapes, magnificent waterfalls, and mystical glaciers at your own pace. With an abundance of natural wonders and hidden gems scattered throughout the country, a self-drive adventure enables you to delve deeper into the heart of Iceland, creating enduring memories.

Picture yourself cruising along the renowned Ring Road, surrounded by stunning vistas of rugged coastlines, towering mountains, and vast lava fields. Every twist and turn introduces you to breathtaking landscapes straight out of a postcard. Pause whenever and wherever you desire, capturing the perfect photo or immersing yourself in the untouched beauty of nature.

As you embark on your Iceland self-drive tour, ensure you're equipped with a reliable vehicle suitable for the Icelandic terrain. Prepare for diverse weather conditions, as Iceland's unpredictable nature may bring both sunshine and rain in a single day. Pack warm layers, waterproof clothing, and sturdy hiking boots to ensure comfort and safety during your exploration.

Iceland's self-drive tour offers an ideal blend of freedom, adventure, and discovery. Craft your adventure, immerse yourself in Iceland's natural wonders, and experience the true essence of this extraordinary country. Secure your Iceland self-drive tour and open the door to a world of breathtaking beauty and unforgettable moments.