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

Welcome to Iceland! Upon arrival, pick up your rental car at Keflavik International Airport and drive to your accommodation in downtown Reykjavik. If you’re arriving on an early flight and have included a visit to the Blue Lagoon in your booking for today, you’ll start your journey there.

This world-renowned geothermal spa sits in a stunning moss-covered lava field and is one of Iceland’s most famous attractions. Its milky blue waters, rich in minerals like silica and sulfur, are known for their healing properties, offering a truly relaxing and rejuvenating experience.

Your visit to the Blue Lagoon will be scheduled based on your flight time. If there isn’t enough time to visit today, your travel consultant can reschedule it for another day.

An alternative to the Blue Lagoon is the Sky Lagoon, another incredible geothermal spa located near Reykjavik. With stunning ocean views, the renowned Skjol bathing ritual, and top-notch facilities, it’s a must-visit destination.

After settling in, spend the rest of the day exploring one of Europe’s most diverse cities. Take time to visit its museums, galleries, restaurants, and bars. 

Harpa Concert Hall is Reykjavik’s premier cultural venue, home to the Iceland Symphony Orchestra and host to various concerts, exhibitions, and festivals throughout the year. Its striking glass facade, which shimmers under changing light, makes it one of the city’s most photographed landmarks.

Another must-visit is Perlan and its interactive exhibitions, including an artificial ice cave and a northern lights planetarium. You can also enjoy a meal at its restaurant and cafe. 

For breathtaking city views and a glimpse into Icelandic architecture, head to Hallgrimskirkja Church, the tallest church in Iceland at 245 feet (74.5 meters). Designed by Gudjon Samuelsson, its towering structure is said to resemble Thor’s hammer, with the handle pointing skyward. 

The church’s design also reflects Iceland’s natural landmarks, incorporating elements inspired by glaciers, basalt columns, mountains, and lava formations. It’s a fitting introduction to the landscapes you’ll encounter over the next 13 days. Climb to the top of the tower for an unforgettable bird’s-eye view of Reykjavik.

After exploring the city, you'll spend the night in Reykjavik in your comfortable accommodation.
 

Day two of your summer self-drive tour in Iceland begins with a short drive to the famous Golden Circle.

Your first stop for today is Thingvellir National Park, a site of both geological and historical significance. This UNESCO World Heritage Site sits in a narrow valley that marks the divide between the Eurasian and North American tectonic plates.

Beyond its stunning landscapes, Thingvellir is deeply rooted in Icelandic history. It was here that Icelanders established their parliament in 930 AD, converted to Christianity in 1000 AD, and declared independence from Denmark in 1944.

One unforgettable experience here is snorkeling in the Silfra Fissure. This breathtaking rift, filled with crystal-clear glacial water, allows you to glide between two continents with visibility reaching over 300 feet. All you need are swimming skills and a sense of adventure!

Then, head to the Haukadalur Geothermal Valley, an area with hot springs, steam vents, mud pools, and geysers. Geysir is the most famous geyser, which lends all the others their name. Interestingly, Geysir is mainly inactive, but Strokkur erupts every 5 to 10 minutes, shooting boiling water over 66 feet (20 meters) into the air.

About 6 miles (9.7 kilometers) away is the mighty waterfall Gullfoss, Iceland's most famous attraction and the final stop on the Golden Circle. Translated as "Golden Falls" in English, the Gullfoss Waterfall stands at 105 feet (32 meters) and sits below the Hvita River Canyon.

A pathway takes you right to the water's edge, where you can get a real sense of the enormous power of the falls. As you marvel at this impressive waterfall, check out the water cascading down two levels, creating a mighty spray below.

Near Gullfoss Waterfall, you’ll find Langjokull Glacier, where you can add an optional snowmobile tour. Glide across the vast, icy terrain toward the glacier’s 4,757-foot (1,450-meter) ice cap, offering breathtaking views.

For a more relaxed experience, consider a horseback ride. Visit one of the Golden Circle’s charming horse farms, where you’ll mount up for a two-hour ride on one of Iceland’s friendly horses, known for their unique tolt gait and gentle nature.

From Gullfoss, you can make an optional stop at Laugarvatn, a charming lakeside village. Here, you can unwind in the warm geothermal pools of Laugarvatn Fontana Spa. Nearby, you can also join a unique rye bread experience, where traditional Icelandic bread is baked underground using natural geothermal heat beneath the volcanic sand.

As you continue your drive, you’ll pass the colorful Kerid Crater, a striking volcanic caldera filled with a vivid blue lake. It’s a quick stop with great photo opportunities and a short walking path around the rim.

After a full day of natural wonders and optional adventures, you’ll spend the night in Southwest Iceland.

On day three, you begin your journey along Iceland's South Coast. 

Visit the majestic Seljalandsfoss Waterfall, known for its magnificent beauty. This 200-foot (60-meter) waterfall originates from the Seljalandsa River, which flows from beneath the Eyjafjallajokull Glacier, the volcano that made global headlines in 2010 when its eruption disrupted air travel across Europe.

As you admire Seljalandsfoss, you’ll notice its narrow, elegant cascade and a pathway that wraps around the waterfall. This makes it one of the few waterfalls in the world that can be fully encircled, offering a unique perspective from every angle.

Around 18 miles (29.3 kilometers) away is Skogafoss Waterfall. This powerful cascade spans 82 feet (25 meters) wide and plunges 197 feet (60 meters) into a misty pool below.

What makes Skogafoss especially appealing is its flat, open land at the base, allowing visitors to walk right up to the water’s edge, though be prepared for the mist! Some days, the sunlight reflects through the waterfall, creating a magical double rainbow. For a panoramic view from above, climb the staircase leading to an observation platform. 

A little further down the road, you'll reach Solheimajokull, where you can take an optional glacier hike or snowmobiling tour. Solheimajokull, an outlet glacier of the Myrdalsjokull ice cap, stretches 5 miles (8 kilometers) long and over a mile (2 kilometers) wide.

Make a small detour from your route to admire the dramatic views from Dyrholaey Viewpoint. From the top, you’ll enjoy sweeping panoramas of black sand beaches, sea cliffs, and the iconic rock arch stretching into the Atlantic.

Only a short drive away, you’ll find Reynisfjara Beach. Reynisfjara is arguably the most beautiful among Iceland's black sand beaches. At the peak of summer, keep an eye out for puffins and other seabirds nesting in the area.

Once you reach the village of Vik, take a moment to recharge before setting off on your next adventure.

One of the top activities available from Vik is an excursion to the breathtaking Katla Ice Cave in Myrdalsjokull Glacier. This stunning natural wonder was formed by centuries of glacial movement and is the only natural ice cave accessible in summer. This tour is also available on the following day

If you want to see more of the glacier’s dramatic landscapes, continue east for further exploration. You can also stop by Kirkjubaejarklaustur, a picturesque village with around 120 residents, for a glimpse of local rural life.

In the evening, you can spend the night in one of the villages of South Iceland.
 

On day four, your self-drive tour in Iceland takes you to Skaftafell Nature Reserve in Vatnajokull National Park.

Skaftafell is known for its majestic features and diverse landscapes. It also boasts a rich flora amid glaciers and sands.

Hiking enthusiasts will be thrilled with the number of tracks and trails, including one that leads to the beautiful Svartifoss Waterfall. This waterfall only measures 66 feet (20 meters) tall and is not as powerful as the other waterfalls in the country. Nevertheless, it remains one of the most popular in Iceland because of its stunning hexagonal basalt columns. 

In Skaftafell, you can also go on a glacier hike. The walk will take you to the top of the Vatnajokull outlet glacier. During the hike, you'll be mesmerized by contrasting scenery, where jet-black sands serve as a backdrop for white glaciers.

Next, you'll head toward the iconic Jokulsarlon Glacier Lagoon, where you can watch icebergs break from a glacial tongue and float serenely toward the ocean. The lagoon has a maximum depth of 814 feet (248 meters), making it Iceland's deepest lake.

Some of the icebergs you’ll see are more than 1,000 years old. It's a place that has attracted keen photographers for years. 

You'll get an even better view if you decide to book an optional amphibious boat or zodiac cruise to get as close to the ice as possible. Look for seals playing in the water or sunning on the rocks. 

After enjoying the lagoon, head to Diamond Beach. Also known as Breidamerkursandur, Diamond Beach is just half a mile (900 meters) from the Jokulsarlon Glacier Lagoon. It features icebergs that wash up on the black sands, creating a sparkling effect that resembles a diamond. 

Once you’ve taken in the beauty of Vatnajokull National Park, continue toward the nearby town of Hofn. Known for its scenic harbor, charming streets, and delicious langoustine dishes, it’s the perfect place to unwind and enjoy dinner before heading to your accommodation in Southeast Iceland.
 

On day five, you'll travel through the incredible Eastfjords. It's a 75-mile (120-kilometer) coastline stretch, starting from Berufjordur in the south to the fishing village of Borgarfjordur Eystri in the north.

The Eastfjords are home to dense forests, sparkling lakes, and diverse wildlife. It’s the only place in Iceland where you can find wild reindeer.

One of the first stops to consider on this route is Vestrahorn Mountain. Located on the Stokksnes Peninsula, this mountain stands 1,490 feet (454 meters) tall and sits close to the ocean, making it a popular site for landscape photographers.

Throughout summer, the mountain casts huge shadows and reflections against its backdrop. Its dark and jagged appearance is caused by the iron- and magnesium-rich gabbro rocks that make up the mountain.

Continuing on, keep your eyes peeled for the lively wildlife in the area, such as seals and migratory birds like puffins. Though known for spending most of their lives at sea, these puffins fly toward the cliffs during spring and summer for breeding. 

The puffins you'll see in Iceland are the Atlantic puffins. They have colorful beaks, while the colors of their bodies resemble those of penguins.

Next, you'll reach Egilsstadir. Egilsstadir is East Iceland's largest town and is close to two natural gems you shouldn't miss. First is Hallormsstadaskogur, the country's largest national forest, covering about 740 hectares of land.

If you're visiting Hallormsstadaskogur in June, join the Forest Day festivities. It's a weekend of music, art exhibitions, and logging competitions. 

The second gem near Egilsstadir is Lake Lagarfjlot, famous for its beauty and folklore. It is believed to be home to a beast called the Lagarfljot Wyrm. Considered to be the cousin of the Loch Ness Monster, the beast is said to be the one disrupting the surface of Lake Lagarfjlot.

If you’re up for a short detour, consider visiting Studlagil Canyon in Jokuldalur Valley. This hidden gem features striking basalt columns and vibrant turquoise water, making it one of East Iceland’s most photogenic spots.

For the best possible end to the day, head to Vok Baths. This hot spring spa in East Iceland offers a relaxing evening surrounded by warm geothermal water and peaceful views of Lake Urridavatn.

By evening, you can spend the night in Egilsstadir or one of the neighboring villages in East Iceland.
 

On the sixth day of your 13-day self-drive tour in Iceland, you'll see one of the best gems of Icelandic nature, Lake Myvatn. 

Lake Myvatn is Iceland’s fourth largest lake and features many small islands and a calm atmosphere. It’s a great spot for wildlife viewing, especially birdlife like the colorful harlequin duck. You might also spot the arctic fox, Iceland’s only native mammal, known for its coat that changes color with the seasons.

Rich in volcanic activity, Lake Myvatn boasts many geothermal sites, mystical lava fields, and geothermal baths surrounded by pseudo-craters and tuff volcanoes. These unique formations were created by steam explosions and volcanic eruptions, shaping a landscape that feels almost otherworldly.

One popular stop in the area is the Myvatn Nature Baths, often called the northern version of the world-famous Blue Lagoon. It’s known for its naturally heated pools, steam baths, and soothing hot tubs. A soak here is the perfect way to relax and recharge your body halfway through your 13-day Iceland road trip.

You can also check out Dimmuborgir, also called the "Black Fortress.” It’s one of the most famous attractions in the Lake Myvatn area. Its popularity increased when it was featured as one of the filming locations for the hit HBO series "Game of Thrones."

After marveling at the sights of Lake Myvatn, drive about 50 miles (80 kilometers) to Jokulsargljufur Canyon, located on the northern side of Vatnajokull National Park. Here, you can visit natural attractions like Dettifoss, the most powerful waterfall in Europe.

Dettifoss boasts an average water flow of 6,186 cubic feet (193 cubic meters) per second. It also measures 330 feet (100 meters) wide and falls 150 feet (45 meters) down into Jokulsargljufur Canyon.

If time allows, consider a detour north to Asbyrgi Canyon, a striking horseshoe-shaped gorge along the Diamond Circle Route. Framed by towering cliffs and home to a rare forested area, Asbyrgi offers peaceful walking trails and a unique blend of myth and natural beauty.

According to legend, Asbyrgi was formed by a hoofprint from Sleipnir, the eight-legged horse of the Norse god Odin. Geologists, however, believe it was carved by powerful glacial floods thousands of years ago.

After exploring some of the best sights in North Iceland, you can take an optional whale-watching tour in the nearby coastal town of Husavik, renowned as the whale-watching capital of Europe. You can even upgrade the tour to include a puffin-watching segment in a little RIB boat.

Be sure to save some energy for a visit to the Godafoss Waterfall. Located 21 miles (34 kilometers) east of Akureyri, it’s a convenient last stop if you plan to stay in Akureyri for the night. As one of Iceland’s most breathtaking waterfalls, Godafoss spans 98 feet (30 meters) wide and cascades from a height of 39 feet (12 meters), creating a truly spectacular sight.

In the evening, you'll head to the town of Akureyri, the northern capital, where you can visit many shops and stores. For a relaxing geothermal spa experience, try Forest Lagoon, which is just a few minutes' drive from the town center.

You will spend the night in a comfortable accommodation in North Iceland.

On day seven, you'll start in the town of Akureyri. Nestled beneath Sulur Peak, Akureyri is a great place to recharge and unwind.

Enjoy a visit to the famous Akureyri Swimming Pool, one of Iceland’s best. It features two 25-meter outdoor pools, an indoor pool, a splash pool, and water slides. All pools are naturally heated by geothermal water, ranging from 80.6 F to 107.6 F (27 C to 42 C). The facility also includes a steam bath and sauna to help relax muscles.

Alternatively, admire thousands of plant specimens at the Akureyri Botanical Gardens for free. It covers 8.89 acres (3.6 hectares) of land and has over 7,000 plant species. About 400 of these species are native. The botanical gardens are only accessible in summer, from June 1 to September 30. 

If you missed whale watching in Husavik, Akureyri offers another great chance to see these incredible creatures. Alternatively, horseback riding along the fjord is a popular and scenic way to explore Northwest Iceland.

You'll then continue on to the Troll Peninsula, following the coast to fishing villages like Dalvik, Siglufjordur, and Hofsos.

Dalvik offers a unique way to unwind at the Bjorbodin Beer Spa. Instead of soaking in hot geothermal water, you can relax in a bath of warm young beer, all while sipping a cold draft beer.

Beyond its natural beauty, Siglufjordur is a cultural hub, home to the award-winning Herring Era Museum and the Folk Music Museum, both offering a glimpse into Iceland’s rich maritime and musical heritage.

Hofsos, on the other hand, is one of Iceland’s oldest trading posts. It’s a welcoming village that comes alive in summer with tourists, hikers, and seasonal residents. 

After exploring Hofsos, you can drive to the historic Holar Cathedral and make it your final stop before spending the night in one of Northwest Iceland’s charming villages.
 

It’s day eight of your self-drive tour in Iceland. Today, you'll journey into the Westfjords. The drive to the town of Isafjordur is a breathtaking journey, with endless fjords and towering mountains flanking the road all the way.

You could stop at Vatnsdalsholar, a cluster of rolling hills along the mouth of Vatnsdalur Valley. You’ll notice the hills come in different shapes and sizes, resulting from landslides that are common in the valley.

About 22 miles (35 kilometers) from Vatnsdalur Valley, you’ll find the Borgarvirki Fortress. It’s a unique natural rock formation in Northwest Iceland that was historically used as a defensive stronghold by the Vikings.

The fortress is actually a volcanic plug, a hardened core of an ancient volcano that remained standing while the softer rock around it eroded over time. Here, you can climb to the top, 580 feet (177 meters) above sea level, explore the ruins, and enjoy breathtaking views of Iceland’s vast countryside.

If you're fascinated by magic, visit the Icelandic Sorcery and Witchcraft Museum in Holmavik. The museum spans two floors, showcasing the history of sorcery in Iceland through intriguing artifacts and stories.

A short drive away, you'll find the Sorcerer’s Cottage, a set of three connected turf houses that recreate the living conditions of sorcerers in the past. As you step inside, look for the intricately carved magic staves on the woodwork, believed to ward off evil spirits.

On the way to Isafjordur, make a detour to the hot pools in Drangsnes. These man-made geothermal hot tubs sit right along the shoreline, nestled between the cliffside road and the ocean. If you plan to take a dip, don’t forget your bathing suit.

Once you arrive in Isafjordur, you’ll discover some of Iceland’s oldest houses, dating back to the mid-18th century. The colorful Old Town is carefully preserved and reflects the town’s rich history. Thanks to its coastal location, Isafjordur became a vital fishing and trading center in the 16th century. Today, it remains the largest town in the Westfjords.

After an eventful day of exploring, you could have dinner at one of the top restaurants in the town, like Tjoruhusid. This highly recommended restaurant serves the best Icelandic seafood in town. After dining, you’ll spend the night in the Westfjords.
 

Day nine of your summer self-drive in Iceland is full of history, dramatic fjords, and incredible coastal views.

If you’d like to include a fun activity before continuing your road trip through the Westfjords, linger in Isafjordur a little longer and join a calm-water kayaking tour. These beginner-friendly tours offer a peaceful way to enjoy the surrounding landscape from a new perspective.

As you head south from Isafjordur, consider stopping at the wooden dock on the shore of Onundarfjordur. Located near the village of Flateyri, this peaceful spot offers one of the most scenic views in the Westfjords and makes a great photo stop.

When you're ready to continue, drive south along Dyrafjordur to the Skrudur Botanical Garden, Iceland’s oldest botanical garden. Founded in 1909 as a teaching garden, it features native and imported plants, colorful flower beds, and a small greenhouse. A striking arch made from whale jawbones marks the entrance.

Next, head to Hrafnseyri, the birthplace of Jon Sigurdsson, one of Iceland’s most important historical figures. His turf-roofed childhood home has been preserved as a small museum dedicated to his life and Iceland’s path to independence.

From there, continue to Dynjandi, one of the most breathtaking waterfalls in Iceland. Often called the jewel of the Westfjords, this wide, multi-tiered cascade drops nearly 330 feet (100 meters) down a rugged cliffside. Its powerful flow, remote setting, and panoramic backdrop make it one of the most unforgettable sights on your journey.

If you have time, consider heading farther south to explore more of the region’s remote beauty. One option is Latrabjarg, the westernmost point in Iceland and one of Europe’s largest sea bird cliffs.

Puffins and other seabirds nest here in large numbers and are often calm around people, making it a favorite for photographers. The drive takes time, but the views and wildlife make it well worth the effort.

Alternatively, you can visit Raudisandur Beach, known for its striking red-gold sand that contrasts beautifully with Iceland’s black beaches. It’s a quiet and scenic destination, perfect for a peaceful walk and wide coastal views if you don’t mind the extra drive.

You’ll spend the night in or near Patreksfjordur, with access to a range of local guesthouses, restaurants, and cafes in the Vesturbyggd area.

On day 10 of your self-drive tour in Iceland, you’ll explore the Snaefellsnes Peninsula, often called “Iceland in Miniature”, because it showcases a diverse mix of landscapes found across the country. 

Your day begins with a scenic ferry ride across Breidafjordur Bay from Brjanslaekur to Stykkisholmur. The price of the ferry is included in your tour, and you can even take your car across at no additional fee.

For a unique detour, consider stopping at Flatey Island, a remote haven seemingly frozen in time. The island has seasonal habitation, with most houses remaining empty until summer. Outside of this brief season, only two farmers stay year-round, tending to the land in solitude. 

Back on the mainland, Stykkisholmur welcomes you with its scenic natural harbor and a strong connection to Breidafjordur’s fertile fishing grounds. Despite being smaller than other towns in the region, it has developed into a notable cultural hub. 

While exploring, visit the Norwegian House Museum, Iceland’s oldest two-story building, offering insight into the area’s history. You can also take a boat tour of Breidafjordur Bay, which is dotted with around 3,000 small islands, giving you a closer look at the unique landscape.

From Stykkisholmur, you can explore some of the many wonders of Snaefellsnes. One of them is the iconic Kirkjufell Mountain, near the village of Grundarfjordur. Also called "Church Mountain," Kirkjufell measures 1,519 feet (463 meters). At the base of the mountain is a lake that reflects Kirkjufell's image during clear days, giving you the perfect photo op if you visit before dark. 

Snaefellsjokull Glacier is a 4,744-foot (1,446-meter) volcano capped by ice that dominates the western tip of the Snaefellsnes Peninsula. You’ll see it clearly as you drive along the southern and western coast of the peninsula. It serves as the centerpiece of Snaefellsjokull National Park and is one of the region’s most iconic natural landmarks.

After a day of exploring, you’ll spend the night in the Snaefellsnes area, surrounded by some of Iceland’s most stunning natural wonders.

Day 11 is dedicated to exploring more of the Snaefellsnes Peninsula, a region packed with stunning landscapes and exciting activities. A quick drive-through wouldn’t do it justice, so take your time to hike, explore, and capture its unique sights.

Today, you'll have even more time to admire Snaefellsjokull Glacier. Aside from being one of Iceland's most incredible glaciers, Snaefellsjokull is rich in folklore. 

For centuries, superstitious Icelanders considered the glacier an ancient energy source. They believed many of the Snaefellsjokull Glacier's rock formations were trolls. These mystical creatures were said to have been petrified by sunlight, turning them into rocks. 

To fully experience Snaefellsjokull’s greatness, consider joining a glacier hiking tour. Witness stunning views from the top, while surrounded by its icy expanse.

After spending some time in Snaefellsjokull National Park, you will drive 10.8 miles (17.4 kilometers) to Vatnshellir, where you could join an optional cave tour. The Vatnshellir Cave is one of the country's oldest lava tubes, formed after an eruption about 8,000 years ago. It measures 656 long (200 meters) with a depth of 114 feet (35 meters).

You can also explore Djupalonssandur Beach and Dritvik Cove before visiting the picturesque villages of Budir, Arnarstapi, and Hellnar.

Known as the "Black Lava Pearl Beach," Djupalonssandur is famous for its black sand, rugged cliffs, and maritime history. The beach is home to four ancient lifting stones weighing between 50 pounds (23 kilograms) and 342 pounds (155 kilograms). Aspiring sailors once used these stones to test their strength and prove their ability to work at sea.

Dritvik Cove, located within Djupalonssandur Beach, was a thriving fishing center from 1650 to 1950 that’s also steeped in folklore. According to the Icelandic saga "Bardar Saga Snaefellsas," the cove’s first settler was Bardur Snaefellsas, a legendary figure said to be half-human and half-troll.

From Djupalonssandur, a short drive east will take you to Budir. This small hamlet is famous for the iconic Budakirkja Black Church set against the dramatic landscapes. 

If you haven’t seen seals yet during your 11 days in Iceland, this is your perfect chance. Just 12 miles (20 kilometers) from Budir, you’ll find Ytri Tunga Beach, the most reliable seal-watching spot in Iceland.

Seals can be spotted here year-round, with one or two often resting on the shore. However, since you're visiting in summer, you’re lucky because this is the best time to see them in larger numbers.

After an exciting day of exploring, hiking, and taking pictures, you'll spend another night in the Snaefellsnes area.

On day 12 of your summer self-drive tour in Iceland, you'll explore the highlights of the West. These include the Icelandic Settlement Center in Borgarnes, which tells the story of Iceland’s earliest settlers, and Deildartunguhver, the most powerful hot spring in Europe.

The Icelandic Settlement Center features two main exhibits: the Age of Settlement and the life of the Viking and poet Egil Skallagrimsson. Visiting the museum will teach you about Iceland's discovery. You'll see how the first settlers arrived and lived in Iceland through interactive displays.

Next, you’ll drive 23 miles (37 kilometers) to Deildartunguhver, a hot spring that boasts a rapid flow rate of 380 pints (180 liters) per second. However, the water here naturally maintains a temperature of 207 F (97 C), so it’s best admired from a safe distance.

For a more relaxing experience, visit the Krauma Geothermal Bath & Spa, where you can soak in soothing geothermal pools. Krauma blends the warm waters of Deildartunguhver with cool glacial water from Ok, Iceland’s smallest ice cap, creating the perfect temperature for relaxation.

Afterward, consider visiting Snorrastofa Museum, which is four miles (6.4 kilometers) from Deildartunguhver. Snorrastofa is a medieval research institute in Reykholt, where the early settler Snorri Sturluson wrote the saga “Heimskringla” in the 13th century. 

Continue your journey to the captivating Hraunfossar and Barnafoss Waterfalls. Hraunfossar features a series of waterfalls that flow from the Hallmundarhraun lava field. Check out how the waters stream from the rock ledges in the lava field, eventually pouring into the Hvita River.

Next, you'll walk 50 feet (15 meters) toward the Barnafoss Waterfall. Because of its sheer power, you’ll experience the water twisting, turning, and foaming right before your eyes.

You can also take one of two different cave tours today. You can go down the more traditional route and explore the lava tube Vidgelmir. Otherwise, you can travel to Langjokull and explore the glacier from the inside, down some incredible man-made ice tunnels.

On the way back to Reykjavik, take a short break at Fossatun, where you’ll find a range of small waterfalls said to be guarded by a troll woman named Drifa. 

For a different kind of adventure, you could skip some West Iceland attractions and head south of Reykjavik to join the Into the Volcano tour instead. On this once-in-a-lifetime experience, you will descend into the now-dormant Thrihnukagigur Volcano’s spectacular magma chamber.

To end your incredible self-drive tour, you’ll spend your final night in the capital, Reykjavik.