Budget-Friendly 6-Day Self-Drive Tour with the Golden Circle & Jokulsarlon Glacier Lagoon

On your second day, get ready for an exhilarating adventure as you begin the route of the Golden Circle, home to some of Iceland's most incredible attractions. 

Before setting out sightseeing, however, you can choose from a range of activities. Start by warming up with a horse-riding excursion, where you can personally experience the friendly and charming Icelandic horses up close. It's a perfect way to connect with nature before diving into the wonders ahead.

For an extraordinary experience, consider taking a tour of the Thrihnukagigur volcano. Once you arrive, hop aboard an elevator that will take you deep into the enormous and empty magma chamber. Explore the vibrant colors and sheer size of this awe-inspiring volcano, a sight that is truly one-of-a-kind.

Your first stop on the Golden Circle route is Thingvellir National Park, a place where the tectonic plates of North America and Eurasia diverge in a beautiful rift valley. This park also holds historical significance as the site of Althingi, Iceland's first parliament, established back in 930 AD. 

For an even more unique experience, you can add snorkeling in Silfra fissure to your booking. Imagine floating in crystal clear water between the continents, an experience that will leave you in awe. Participants need to be comfortable in the water and be able to swim.

Another highlight along the Golden Circle is Haukadalur, a geothermal valley that houses Geysir and Strokkur, two world-famous geysers. Strokkur, in particular, is fully active and puts on an impressive display every few minutes as it erupts with a powerful burst of hot water. The area is also dotted with other geysers, hot springs, and bubbling mud pools, creating a fascinating and dynamic geothermal landscape.

And let's not forget about Gullfoss, a cascading waterfall that exudes tremendous untamed energy. Witness the sheer power and beauty of this waterfall before considering an optional snowmobile tour on top of Langjokull glacier, a thrilling way to cap off your Golden Circle adventure.

As the day comes to an end, you'll reach the charming area of southwest Iceland, where your booked accommodation awaits, providing a comfortable and cozy place to rest and rejuvenate for the next day's adventures.

On day three, prepare for an exciting drive south as you embark on the next leg of your Icelandic adventure. 

Along the way, you'll pass by the infamous glacier volcano Eyjafjallajokull, which erupted back in 2010 and caused a temporary halt in European air traffic. Take a moment to appreciate the magnitude of this natural wonder as you continue your journey.

During your drive, make sure to stop and marvel at two of Iceland's most popular waterfalls, Seljalandsfoss and Skogafoss. Seljalandsfoss offers a unique experience as you can actually walk behind the cascading water and feel the refreshing mist on your face. It's a perfect opportunity to capture stunning photos and create lasting memories.

If you're up for a detour, make a stop at the folk museum in Skogar, where you can witness beautifully restored traditional turf houses. These architectural gems provide a glimpse into Iceland's rich cultural heritage and offer a unique insight into the country's history. Immerse yourself in the atmosphere and imagine what life was like in these historical dwellings.

Continuing your drive towards the Solheimajokull glacier, you can add even more excitement to your day. Consider including a thrilling glacier hike or an exhilarating snowmobiling tour in your package.

These activities allow you to get up close and personal with the majestic glaciers of Iceland, offering a once-in-a-lifetime experience that you won't soon forget.

As you arrive in the coastal village of Vik, take your time to visit the stunning black beach of Reynisfjara.

This unique beach is adorned with dramatic basalt cliffs known as Reynisdrangar, rising majestically from the sea. However, be cautious of the beach's powerful hidden currents and always follow the safety guidelines. 

If you visit in the summer, don't forget to look up at Mount Reynisfjall or the Dyrholaey rock arch, where you might be lucky enough to spot some adorable puffins as they dive down the cliffs to feed in the sea.

As the day comes to an end, your final destination will be your charming and peaceful South Iceland accommodation. Here, you will have the opportunity to relax and unwind, staying overnight in comfortable lodging nestled within the area. 

On your fourth day of this unforgettable self-drive tour, get ready to explore even more of Iceland's natural wonders and embark on exciting adventures. 

Before continuing on the ring road, make sure to visit the captivating Foss a Sidu waterfall, known for its graceful cascades and serene surroundings. Alternatively, you can marvel at the stunning basalt columns of Dverghamrar, which resemble towering organ pipes created by nature's hand.

As you resume your journey on the ring road, prepare to cross the mesmerizing black sandy plains of Skeidararsandur. This vast expanse of glacial wasteland is a sight to behold, with its otherworldly beauty and stark contrast against the surrounding landscapes. Keep your camera ready to capture the unique essence of this extraordinary terrain.

Your next stop is the remarkable Skaftafell Nature Reserve, nestled within the larger Vatnajokull National Park. This pristine wilderness offers endless opportunities for sightseeing and adventure. 

Lace up your hiking boots and embark on a scenic trek to Svartifoss waterfall, known for its beauty as it cascades down a wall of black basalt columns. This natural marvel is truly a sight to behold and a perfect spot to connect with the raw power of Iceland's nature.

For those seeking an even more exhilarating experience, consider adding a guided glacier hike along one of Vatnajokull's many outlet glaciers. Explore the icy wonderland and witness the magnificence of these ancient glaciers up close. This guided adventure will provide you with unique insights into the geological wonders of Iceland.

After immersing yourself in the beauty of Skaftafell, continue your journey eastward to the highlight of the trip, Jokulsarlon Glacier Lagoon. This breathtaking destination will leave you in awe as glistening icebergs, which have broken off from Iceland's largest ice cap, gather to float in a shimmering blue lagoon. Witness the ever-changing scenery and take in the incredible beauty that surrounds you.

To truly immerse yourself in the experience, consider booking one of the available boat rides in the lagoon. These excursions will allow you to get even closer to the icebergs and admire their intricate formations from all angles. Feel the chill in the air and the sense of wonder as you navigate the crystal-clear waters.

After exploring the majestic Jokulsarlon Glacier Lagoon, take a short walk to the renowned Diamond Beach. This unique shoreline is adorned with ice pieces that have washed up on shore, glimmering like sparkling diamonds under the sun. Capture the magical ambiance of this enchanting location and create memories that will last a lifetime.

As the day ends, you'll return to your South Iceland accommodation, where you will spend another night.