Full 10-Day Northern Lights Self-Drive Tour of the Ring Road of Iceland

Day two is all about the Golden Circle, a route home to some of Iceland’s most famous natural wonders! 

After checking out of your hotel, hit the road and head straight for Thingvellir National Park. Aside from sitting between two tectonic plates, it's also home to the stunning Silfra Fissure. The water there is so clear, it’s like snorkeling in glass!

If you're feeling adventurous, book a Silfra Fissure snorkeling tour to glide between the North American and Eurasian plates. You’ll need to be comfy in the water, but it’s an experience you won’t forget.

Thingvellir isn’t just about jaw-dropping nature. It’s also Iceland’s historical birthplace. The first Icelandic parliament, the Althingi, was founded here back in 930 AD.

Next, drive over to Haukadalur Valley and get ready to be wowed by the world-famous Geysir. While Geysir itself isn’t too active, the nearby Strokkur geyser erupts every few minutes, shooting water usually at 66 feet (20 meters) high. It’s like nature’s version of a fireworks show!

Just down the road, you’ll find Gullfoss, one of Iceland’s most iconic waterfalls. The Hvita River plunges into a massive gorge, creating a double-tier waterfall that’s seriously impressive. This place is perfect for some incredible shots!

Level up your experience by adding a snowmobiling tour on the Langjokull Glacier. You'll feel the thrill of speeding across the ice as you take in the breathtaking surroundings. Alternatively, enjoy a horseback ride through the beautiful landscapes of the Golden Circle.

For a more relaxing experience, it’s worth dropping by the Fontana Spa at Lake Laugarvatn. Book your admission to unwind in the geothermal pools while soaking in beautiful views. While here, don’t miss the unique geothermal rye bread experience, where you’ll get to taste freshly baked bread cooked in the hot springs.

Before heading to your accommodation in Southwest Iceland, take a quick detour to Kerid Crater or the eco-village of Solheimar. These spots are perfect for stretching your legs and soaking in some more Icelandic beauty.

As the day winds down, keep an eye on the sky for the magical northern lights. In winter, these incredible lights are visible in many parts of Iceland, especially in more remote areas away from city lights. 

With your adventure taking you through some of the country’s most stunning landscapes, you’ll have plenty of chances to witness this breathtaking natural phenomenon. 

You’ll stay at a comfortable accommodation in South Iceland for the night.

On the third day of your Iceland Ring Road self-drive tour, journey through the stunning South Coast.

Your journey kicks off with a drive past the famous Eyjafjallajokull Volcano, which made headlines in 2010 when its eruption caused massive air travel disruptions across Europe. On clear days, you'll catch a stunning view of this powerhouse.

Today’s first stop is the iconic Seljalandsfoss Waterfall. Even in winter, this stunning 200-foot (61-meter) drop is a magical sight to behold, with ice and snow creating a surreal winter wonderland. You’ll definitely want to snap a few photos here.

Next, just a short drive away is the Skogafoss Waterfall. This one’s even more powerful, stretching 82 feet (25 meters) wide and falling a height equal to Seljalandsfoss. The mist from the falls creates rainbows on sunny days, so keep your camera ready for a perfect shot.

Now, it’s time to get a bit adventurous. Head toward the Myrdalsjokull Glacier, where you have two awesome options to enhance your experience. Strap in for an exhilarating snowmobile ride on the glacier, or if you want to get closer to the ice, choose a glacial hike on the Solheimajokull Glacier. 

For a little more chill activity, check out the Lava Center Exhibition in Hvolsvollur or head to the Hella Caves to learn more about Iceland’s volcanic activity.

Continue along the coast to the famous DC-3 plane wreck on Solheimasandur Beach. This 1970s abandoned aircraft sits on the black sand, just a 2.5-mile (4-kilometer) walk from the parking area. For a quicker, more adventurous experience, book an ATV tour to reach the wreck with a thrilling ride across the sand.

As you drive along, you’ll reach Reynisfjara Black Sand Beach, one of the most famous beaches in Iceland. The contrast between the black sand and snow-covered landscapes is surreal. Snap some shots of the Reynisdrangar Sea Stacks that rise out of the ocean. Just remember, the beach is known for its dangerous sneaker waves, so stay safe while you explore.

End your day in the charming village of Vik or another Southeast Iceland accommodation, where you can unwind and take in the views of the Atlantic. Enjoy a cozy night before heading off to the next leg of your adventure.

Keep your eyes on the sky for a chance to catch the northern lights dancing above the town. It's the perfect way to cap off day three of your Ring Road itinerary. 

Day four of this winter self-drive tour in Iceland kicks off with a scenic drive further east into Vatnajokull National Park. 

Before you leave Vik, consider adding a Katla Ice Cave tour to your day. Located under the famous Katla Volcano, this ice cave offers a chance to explore stunning ice formations inside a real volcano. The caves are accessible year-round and a great way to start your adventure with a bit of extra thrill.

As you arrive at Vatnajokull National Park, your adventure continues with two must-see spots: Skaftafell Nature Reserve and Jokulsarlon Glacier Lagoon.

Your first stop is Skaftafell, a hiker’s paradise. Choose a hiking trail that caters to your abilities and discover lava fields, forests, glacial tongues, and breathtaking waterfalls. 

For an extra dose of adventure, consider adding a snowmobile and super jeep tour or a glacier hike on Vatnajokull to your itinerary if you didn’t have the chance to do it yesterday. If you'd rather save it for tomorrow, you can easily book it with the help of your travel planner.

Elevate the experience with a sightseeing flight over the Vatnajokull Glacier. This aerial adventure offers a bird’s-eye view of the glacier, giving you a unique perspective of the ice cap, surrounding landscapes, and ice formations.

Next, get ready for one of Iceland’s crown jewels: the Jokulsarlon Glacier Lagoon. Icebergs drift gracefully across the lagoon, heading toward the ocean, while seals play in the waters or lounge on the ice. 

If you’re up for it, book a boat tour to glide closer to the icebergs and feel the cool Arctic breeze. Pro tip: if you're an early riser, you might have time for both a glacier hike and a boat tour before heading to the next stop.

Just across the lagoon is the stunning Diamond Beach, where chunks of ice wash up on the shore, glittering in the sunlight against the jet-black sand. It’s a perfect spot for a peaceful walk and a few more breathtaking photos.

If you’re visiting between November and March, don’t miss out on the chance to explore the incredible ice caves in Vatnajokull National Park. These natural wonders, like the Western and Eastern Ice Caves, are some of the coolest winter activities you can experience in Iceland. Remember to book ahead, as the caves are only accessible during the winter months, and demand is high.

Afterward, head to your accommodation in Southeast Iceland and rest up for tomorrow’s adventure. As night falls, watch the skies closely. If you're lucky, the northern lights might appear, providing the perfect end to an epic day. 

As you continue your Iceland Ring Road self-drive tour today, you'll journey through the majestic Eastfjords, a paradise of towering mountains, deep inlets, and charming seaside villages. Along the beaches, you might spot seals basking in the sun and, if you're lucky, a reindeer roaming the countryside.

If you want a thrilling start to your day, you can catch an exciting snowmobiling adventure on the Vatnajokull Glacier via a super jeep. In case you missed it yesterday, you can take this tour from Hofn. 

Your East Iceland journey kicks off as you drive to Vestrahorn, a dramatic mountain range on the Stokksnes Peninsula. These sharp peaks rise out of the sea, creating one of Iceland's most photogenic landscapes. It's the perfect spot for some awe-inspiring photos, especially if the weather’s right.

For an added adventure, consider going on an off-road sightseeing tour along the Streiti Coast from Breiddalsvik. This rugged and remote area offers breathtaking views of dramatic cliffs, secluded beaches, and a stunning coastline.

Your road trip continues to Hallormsstadaskogur, Iceland’s largest national forest. With its winding hiking trails, the forest is a peaceful retreat. Dress warmly, though; you’ll want to stay cozy as you make your way through this beautiful forest.

From here, consider a detour to Hengifoss, one of Iceland’s tallest waterfalls. The hike up may be challenging, but the view is worth it. Just be prepared for icy and snowy conditions, and check road conditions and weather forecasts beforehand.

Then, make your way to Lagarfljot Lake. Legend has it that the lake is home to the Lagarfljot worm, a serpent-like creature said to be the cousin of the Loch Ness Monster. The views here are stunning, with surrounding mountains creating a dramatic backdrop.

After your Eastfjords adventure, head to Egilsstadir, East Iceland’s largest town. Take time to stroll through the charming streets, grab a bite at a local cafe, or visit the East Iceland Heritage Museum to learn more about the area’s rich history.

For a more relaxing option, consider visiting the nearby Vok Baths, a geothermal spa overlooking the serene Urridavatn Lake. It’s an excellent spot to unwind and recharge after a day of exploration.

As night approaches, the northern lights may illuminate the sky, adding a magical touch to your Eastfjords adventure. Then, rest up in your comfortable accommodation in Egilsstadir or another Eastern village, ready for the next exciting day of your winter self-drive tour in Iceland.

On day six of your winter self-drive tour in Iceland, journey from the Eastfjords to North Iceland, with a pit stop at Lake Myvatn and a few hidden gems along the way.

From your East Iceland accommodation, take a scenic detour to the Borgarfjordur Eystri Fjord, just about an hour’s drive off the Ring Road. This stunning fjord and valley offer rugged landscapes, hiking trails, and great opportunities to spot puffins and wildlife.

Leaving the Eastfjords, you’ll head north toward Lake Myvatn, part of Iceland's famous Diamond Circle route. As you continue driving, take in the spectacular scenery, passing lava fields, rugged terrain, and other natural wonders. Along the way, stop by the Rjukandi Waterfall and the suspension bridge over the Jokulsa a Fjollum River for some perfect photo ops.

You can also take a detour to see the Dettifoss Waterfall, one of the most powerful waterfalls in Europe. The sheer force of the water crashing down is absolutely awe-inspiring, and the surrounding landscape adds to the drama.

Then, visit the Asbyrgi Canyon, a horseshoe-shaped depression surrounded by towering cliffs and lush greenery. According to legend, it was formed by a giant’s hoofprint. You can take a short hike to fully appreciate the dramatic surroundings.

Next, head to Husavik, Iceland’s whale-watching capital. You can join an exciting whale-watching tour by RIB boat or traditional boat—either today or tomorrow, depending on your schedule.

When you arrive at Lake Myvatn, you’ll have two days to explore the area at your own pace. Known for its geothermal wonders, volcanic craters, and unique landscapes, Myvatn offers endless adventures. 

One of the best ways to unwind is to visit the Myvatn Nature Baths, often called the “Blue Lagoon of the North.” The warm, mineral-rich waters are perfect for a soak, and you can relax in the steam baths afterward. 

Lastly, visit the nearby village of Reykjahlid, where you can see a picturesque church and the Storagja Cave.

In the evening, make your way to your North Iceland accommodation. North Iceland is one of the best places to catch the northern lights, with minimal light pollution and jaw-dropping views. Settle into your accommodation, ready for the next exciting leg of your Ring Road self-drive tour.