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

You'll spend the second day of your Ring Road self-drive tour exploring the famous Golden Circle sightseeing route to see some of the best-known natural phenomena in Iceland. 

The first stop today is the Thingvellir National Park. At the Thingvellir National Park, you can symbolically walk between the Eurasian and North American tectonic plates at the rift valley made by their constant pulling. 

This area played a massive role in Iceland's heritage. It is Iceland's first UNESCO World Heritage Site, as it is the place where early settlers founded what would become the world's longest, ongoing representative parliament. 

You can take an optional snorkeling tour here, in the crystal clear Silfra ravine, which offers some of the best visibility in the world.

Next is the geothermal valley of Haukadalur, filled with hot springs, mud pools, and steam vents, where you can see the geysers Strokkur and Geysir. 

Geysir rarely erupts these days, but Strokkur geyser is active, erupting every five to 10 minutes to heights of over 66 feet (20 meters).

The mighty Gullfoss waterfall is the last stop on the Golden Circle sightseeing route. A pathway takes you right to the river's edge, where you can get a real sense of the enormous, natural power of the water. 

You can choose to go on an optional snowmobiling tour of Langjokull glacier from the Gullfoss waterfall. If you do not wish to snorkel or snowmobile, you could take a two-hour horse-riding tour instead.

Afterward, head to the South Coast and visit the majestic Seljalandsfoss and Skogafoss waterfalls. Both are visible from the main road, as are several glaciers along the way. 

Near Vik village, take a slight detour to admire the black volcanic beach and the dramatic Dyrholaey and Reynisdrangar rock formations.

You'll spend the night in comfortable accommodation in South Iceland. You will have an en-suite bathroom.

On the third day of your self-drive tour of Iceland's Ring Road and the East Fjords, you'll visit the Skaftafell Nature Reserve and the otherworldly Jokulsarlon glacier lagoon in the southeastern region.

After waking up in Vik or the nearby settlements, you can take an ice cave tour on the nearby Myrdalsjokull glacier. It is the country's fourth-largest glacier, covering an area of about 367 miles (590 square kilometers). 

Myrdalsjokull glacier sits atop Katla volcano, one of Iceland's most active and powerful volcanoes. The glacier's icy expanse is adorned with mesmerizing ice formations, deep crevasses, and sparkling blue ice caves that attract adventurous explorers.

If you'd like to skip the ice cave tour and continue your journey, continue driving the South Coast to the many sights of the beautiful Skaftafell Nature Reserve area of the Vatnajokull National Park. 

There is plenty to do for hiking enthusiasts, with tracks and trails suitable for all abilities, including one leading to the beautiful Svartifoss waterfall, whose name means "Black Falls."

The hexagonal basalt columns that surround these falls inspired the architecture of the famous Hallgrimskirkja church in Reykjavik. These columns create a striking contrast against the whites of the waters.

You may also take a glacier hike in this area to see its rugged and diverse wilderness.

Once you hit the road again, stop at one of Iceland's most famous attractions and top photo spots, the Jokulsarlon glacier lagoon, where beautiful icebergs break from a glacier and sail out to the ocean. You can enjoy an optional cruise on an amphibious boat or a zodiac, amongst them here. 

Take a short walk from the lagoon to Diamond Beach, where these icebergs wash up on the black sand shore like glittering jewels. These resemble diamonds and give the beach its name. 

You'll spend the night in comfortable accommodation with an en-suite bathroom in Southeast Iceland.

On the fourth day of your self-drive tour of Iceland's Ring Road, you'll see the beautiful landscapes and stop at some of the tiny villages of the East Fjords. Its distance from Reykjavik and remote location makes it less traveled by tourists.

After enjoying a filling breakfast, you'll continue your drive eastward and begin a breathtaking route along the East Fjords, passing by tranquil fishing villages and sweeping coastal landscapes all along the way. 

The roads here wind through the stunning scenery, so you'll enjoy the drive and the views.

You'll see rugged mountains and stunning bays in a rural, historical part of Iceland, full of unspoiled landscapes. Watch for puffins and seals along the coast and reindeer on land. Consider stopping at some of the delightful villages along the way.

One of these is Faskrudsfjordur. The town has a rich history, once serving as an important trading port for the fishing industry. Visitors can explore the Faskrudsfjordur Museum, which provides insight into the town's past and the stories of its inhabitants. 

The French Hospital, a historic building converted into a museum, pays homage to the French fishermen who sought refuge in the town during the 19th century. Because of this, many of the village's residents still speak French, and some of the road signs are in French.

You could also stop at Reydarfjordur. The town is known for its strategic importance during World War II when it hosted a British and later American military base. 

Today, remnants of that history can be explored at the Fjardarheidi Museum, showcasing artifacts and exhibits from the wartime era. Reydarfjordur is also a haven for outdoor enthusiasts, offering hiking, fishing, and birdwatching opportunities. 

Your main destination for the day is Egilsstadir, the unofficial capital of the region. Your accommodation will be here tonight or in one of the nearby towns in the Eastfjords.

On the fifth day of your summer self-drive tour of the Ring Road of Iceland, you can explore the area around Egilsstadir, the biggest settlement of East Iceland. 

Start your day with a drive along Lagarfljot Lake, where the much older cousin of the Loch Ness Monster, the Lagarfljot Wyrm, is said to live. Stop for a picnic in the beautiful lush green bay of Atlavik beside a beautiful river.

Nestled between majestic mountains and fjords, this secluded bay offers a serene and unspoiled natural setting. Its pristine black sand beach, framed by rugged cliffs and lush vegetation, creates a striking contrast against the deep blue waters. 

Atlavik bay is a popular destination for hikers and outdoor enthusiasts, as it serves as a starting point for various scenic trails that wind through the surrounding mountains and valleys.

Nearby, you can hike up to Litlanesfoss and Hengifoss waterfalls. Hengifoss waterfall is Iceland's third tallest waterfall and is characterized by red clay stripes in the black rocks that contrast with its white waters. It is around 420 feet (128 meters) tall.

Litlanesfoss waterfall has stunning basalt columns surrounding it. To discover both waterfalls, you can take a two-hour return hike from the parking lot, which is well worth the effort. Make plenty of stops for photographs, as you'll see some stunning rock formations along the way.

If you've upgraded to a four-wheel drive rental vehicle, you can drive further inland, towards the Snaefell mountain or Karahnjukar dam. Near Karahnjukar are two stunning canyons, Dimmugljufur and Hafrahvammagljufur, which are great hiking locations.

Drive back to Egilsstadir, and from there, head to the charming town of Seydisfjordur, where you'll find plenty of attractions to admire, including Skaftfell Art Center, Seydisfjordur church, and Gufufoss waterfall.

You will spend another night in a comfortable countryside accommodation in East Iceland to prepare for tomorrow's adventure.

On the sixth day of your self-drive tour of Iceland's Ring Road and Eastfjords, you'll go to Borgarfjordur Eystri, a village nestled between beautiful mountains. You'll spend the day exploring its surroundings.

There are plenty of exciting hiking trails, perhaps the most impressive of which leads to Storurd, whose name translates to 'the Giant Boulders. It is also sometimes called Hrafnabjargaurd.

Here, soft green moss and giant boulders rise from tranquil turquoise waters. Tall mountains surround meadows and lakes. It's a place of incredible, untouched beauty, like many places in the remote East Fjords of Iceland.

This hike is challenging through rugged terrain, so you'll need a good fitness level to complete it. It takes over two and a half hours each way. Fortunately, the stunning nature and views that await you on the trail are worth the challenge.

You can also take a delightful walk along the beach near Husey. There are two hikes here. One is around 3.7 miles (six kilometers) long, and the other is longer at about 8.7 miles (14 kilometers). 

There are some excellent wildlife-watching opportunities here. The coastline is known for its many seals, and there is a wealth of birdlife, including skuas and red-throated divers. 

If you don't want to go for an entire hike but would enjoy a stroll, you can have a short walk to the village's bird-watching site. The puffins here are unafraid of people and may even approach you, setting up beautiful photo opportunities. However, keeping a safe distance from them would be best not to interrupt their habitat.

Please note that access is limited in June and July, and the puffins leave mid-August.

As well as wildlife, the landscapes around here are naturally beautiful, with surrounding moors of black sand and dramatic mountains.

You will spend another night in a comfortable accommodation in the eastern region of Iceland. 

On the seventh day of your self-drive tour of Iceland's Ring Road, you will discover the Lake Myvatn area and its geothermal landscapes.

Your first stop should be the Namaskard Pass. This otherworldly landscape is characterized by boiling mud pots, steaming fumaroles, and vibrant mineral deposits. 

The area's geothermal activity creates an eerie atmosphere filled with the smell of sulfur. The ground is covered in colorful minerals, ranging from reds and oranges to yellows and greens.

Be sure to see the Dimmuborgir lava formations. Also known as the "Dark Castles," it is a unique and otherworldly volcanic rock formation. 

The area features a labyrinth of towering lava pillars, arches, and caves formed when molten lava from a volcano eruption cooled and solidified. The result is a surreal and haunting landscape that has inspired legends and folklore. 

Visitors can explore various walking trails, marveling at the intricate rock formations and feeling immersed in a mythical realm. 

Next, head to Krafla Mountain, one of Iceland's most visited volcanoes. It is part of a volcanic system with a caldera and a geothermal area. 

The mountain is known for its dramatic landscapes, with rugged slopes and vast lava fields stretching around it. Hikers and outdoor enthusiasts are drawn to Krafla for its challenging trails and panoramic views of the surrounding volcanic terrain. 

The Krafla Geothermal Power Station, situated at the foot of the mountain, harnesses the area's geothermal energy. 

Don't miss the hot spring lava tube cave of Grjotagja, where you can try a hand dip in an extraordinary and unique location. However, swimming is discouraged here due to the unstable temperatures of the water.

Fortunately, you can try the full geothermal bathing experience later in the nearby Myvatn Nature Baths, with their healing powers and silica minerals. It's the perfect way to relax after a full day of sightseeing. 

Soak in the warm waters while taking in the sweeping vistas of mountains, lava cliffs, and the lake beside the pool. 

Afterward, you'll stay in comfortable accommodation with an en-suite bathroom in Northeast Iceland.

On the eighth day of your summer road trip around Iceland, you can explore more of the Myvatn area and its unique surroundings.

You can drive through the Jokulsargljufur part of Vatnajokull National Park, visiting the Asbyrgi canyon and Dettifoss waterfall, the most powerful waterfall in Europe. 

Shaped like a horseshoe, the Asbyrgi Canyon stretches for about 2.2 miles (3.5 kilometers) and boasts towering cliffs that reach up to around 328 feet (100 meters). 

The canyon's formation is believed to result from a catastrophic glacial flood thousands of years ago. Its lush greenery, serene atmosphere, and unique geological features make it a paradise for hikers and nature enthusiasts. 

The distinctive rock formations and diverse flora and fauna add to the charm of Asbyrgi canyon, making it a must-visit on your itinerary.

Meanwhile, the Dettifoss waterfall boasts a powerful cascade from a width of 330 feet (100 meters). Seeing this feature is an unforgettable experience that you should capture in photos.

Alternatively, you could have a quieter morning exploring the beautiful town of Akureyri.

Akureyri, often called the "Capital of the North," is a vibrant town in northern Iceland. With a population of around 20,000, it is the country's second-largest urban area. 

Akureyri is renowned for its stunning natural surroundings, including snow-capped mountains, fjords, and nearby waterfalls. 

The town offers a charming blend of old-world charm and modern amenities, with colorful buildings, boutique shops, and a bustling arts and cultural scene. Visitors can explore attractions like the Akureyri Church and the Akureyri Botanical Gardens. 

Akureyri's warm and welcoming atmosphere and scenic beauty make it a delightful destination for travelers seeking Icelandic charm and adventure.

You could also join a whale-watching tour at the nearby village of Husavik, known as the whale-watching capital of Europe. You can add a puffin-watching segment to this. 

Another great option is to visit the idyllic Hrisey Island in Eyjafjordur.

You'll stay the night in North Iceland.

On the ninth day of your self-drive vacation in Iceland, you'll discover more of the north of the country. You'll also have the option to take tours, including horse riding and whale watching.

You can start the day by taking a serene horseback ride through this incredible region. Icelandic horses are known for their friendly, easy-going personalities, so the horse riding tour is suitable for beginners, intermediates, and expert riders. 

Icelandic horses also have a unique gait called a tolt, which allows them to travel easily over Iceland's rugged terrain, providing a smooth ride for their rider.

After horse riding, you will continue towards Skagafjordur, a valley known for its many Icelandic horses and loudly singing men. 

The fjord stretches over 25 miles (40 kilometers), offering breathtaking views of snow-capped mountains, lush valleys, and the glistening waters of Skagafjordur bay. 

Skagafjordur is also home to historic turf farmhouses, such as Glaumbaer, which provide a glimpse into Iceland's past. 

You will also pass through the beautiful, mountainous area of Trollaskagi. Trollaskagi, meaning "Troll Peninsula," is a stunning remote region. It is named after the folklore tales of trolls believed to roam the rugged mountains and deep valleys. 

Trollaskagi offers breathtaking landscapes with towering mountains, cascading waterfalls, and deep fjords. 

The region is renowned for its dramatic hiking trails, where adventurers can explore hidden gems like Hrisey Island and the charming village of Siglufjordur.  

If you missed yesterday's whale-watching tour, you could opt into one today.

It is recommended that you visit the award-winning Herring Era Museum in the old herring-fishing village of Siglufjordur to learn about the importance of the fishing industry to this nation historically. 

Afterward, go to Hofsos, where you can enjoy the incredible scenery from the town's thermal pool.

You'll spend the night in one of the villages in Northwest Iceland.

You'll spend day ten of your 11-day self-drive tour of Iceland exploring West Iceland and its diverse attractions, including the Icelandic settlement exhibition in Borgarnes. You can also tour Langjokull glacier and visit some magnificent waterfalls.

Start your day at Borgarnes, where you can visit the Icelandic settlement exhibition. The Icelandic Settlement Exhibition is a captivating museum that provides a fascinating glimpse into Iceland's Viking history and the settlement era. 

The exhibition showcases the remains of a Viking longhouse discovered during archaeological excavations. Visitors can explore the reconstructed settlement with interactive displays, artifacts, and multimedia presentations that bring the past to life. 

The exhibition offers insights into the early settlers' daily lives, customs, and struggles, highlighting their resourcefulness and resilience. The Icelandic Settlement Exhibition is a must-visit destination for history enthusiasts and those seeking to delve into Iceland's rich cultural heritage.

Further along, be sure to visit the captivating Hraunfossar and Barnafoss waterfalls. History buffs may also enjoy visiting Snorrastofa, the medieval research institute in Reykholt, where the early settler Snorri Sturluson wrote Saga Heimskringla in the 13th century. 

He is also the one who documented the main manuscript of old Norse mythology, the Poetic Edda.

On the way back to Reykjavik, take a short break at Fossatun, a waterfall said to be guarded by a troll woman named Drifa. 

If you'd like to hike, take the scenic route around Hvalfjordur. You can spend a couple of hours hiking to Glymur, Iceland's tallest waterfall.

There are several incredible tours that you can end your day with here. The first is a traditional lava caving tour into Vidgelmir. The second allows you to explore the inside of Langjokull Glacier through recently opened artificial tunnels. 

The third is a once-in-a-lifetime descent into the magnificent magma chamber of a dormant volcano.

Spend your last night in the vibrant capital city of Reykjavik.

On the 11th day of your self-drive tour of Iceland’s Ring Road and East Fjords, it’s time to head home. 

If you have an early flight, enjoy breakfast at your accommodation in Reykjavik before heading to the Keflavik International Airport. Be sure to arrive in plenty of time to drop off your bags and return your rental car. 

Once you’ve done this, you can check in. Enjoy shopping, have a meal, or grab a drink at one of the airport bars and relax until it’s time to board your flight.

For those who have a later flight and choose to visit the Blue Lagoon geothermal spa today, you will finish your stay unwinding before heading to the airport. 

The Blue Lagoon geothermal spa is the perfect place to relax as you bathe in the warm, mineral-rich waters and reflect on the incredible adventure you have just taken in the land of fire and ice. The waters are thought to have healing properties. 

The Blue Lagoon geothermal spa is on the way to the airport from Reykjavik, so it’s the perfect way to end your time in Iceland. 

You could also explore more of Reykjavik during your last day. Head to one of the museums or art galleries to soak up some culture or do some last-minute souvenir shopping on Laugavegur Street.