Best 1-Week Summer Self-Drive Tour of the Ring Road of Iceland & Golden Circle

In south Iceland, there is an old plane wreck that guests can visit.
Likely to sell out soon
Free cancellation
24/7 customer support
Perfect travel plan
Fully customizable
Car & accommodation

Description

Summary

Tour starts
Keflavík Airport
Starting time
Flexible
Duration
8 days
Ending place
Keflavík Airport
Difficulty
Easy
Available
May. - Aug.
Ending time
Flexible
Minimum age
None

Description

Book now and secure yourself an eight-day adventure to Iceland. Explore the stunning attractions of Iceland's South Coast, Eastfjords, North, and West as you travel the whole Ring Road. This road trip is for anyone who likes discovering new places at their own pace rather than having tour guides in control. 

Using the Ring Road as your guide, you'll see some of the country’s most spectacular natural wonders in eight days. It will include the capital city of Reykjavík, the world-famous Golden Circle sightseeing route, and Akureyri, “the Capital of the North.” 

You'll also visit Jokulsarlon Glacier Lagoon, the beautiful Lake Myvatn, the most stunning waterfalls, volcanoes, quaint rural towns, and countless other attractions. 

Booking this tour will help you avoid spending weeks planning that perfect Iceland itinerary. To save you from all the hassle, we’ve already got the planning part covered. We’ll also offer this thrilling tour for a great price. 

You can also add more exciting activities to your trip during the booking process. For instance, you can go snowmobiling on Langjokull glacier, hike on a glacier, or snorkel between two continents in Thingvellir National Park.

If you’re a nature enthusiast, consider adding unique adventures to your trip. You can join the famous Jokulsarlon Glacier Lagoon boat tour, go whale watching from Husavik town, ride an Icelandic horse through the rugged countryside, go lava caving, or venture inside the glistening white halls of a glacier. Each addition will leave you with incredible lifelong experiences from the land of fire and ice.

There is even the chance to descend into the vividly colored magma chamber of a sleeping volcano. And if you want to relax, you can book a trip to the world-famous Blue Lagoon and bask in its soothing azure waters amid a dramatic volcanic landscape. These extra stops are only some of the many reasons people love this Ring Road and Golden Circle self-drive experience. As a result, the tour has received high ratings and positive reviews. It’s also one of the easiest tours for families and guests of all ages.

There, you'll find many spots where you can be virtually alone, at incredible locations most visitors have never heard of. You'll also find in the itinerary information your full comfort accommodation selections, including an ensuite bathroom and breakfast.

Aside from the flexibility and freedom during the tour, we’ll also provide the necessary support you may need. Our packages come with a personal travel agent you can contact any time of the day, seven days a week. We'll also give you a personalized and detailed itinerary, which you'll receive upon booking.

If you decide to cancel your trip for any reason, you may do so for free and get a full refund 24 hours before departure.

So don't hesitate to grab the wheel and secure this unique opportunity for the perfect stay in Iceland. Explore the Ring Road’s top attractions and many hidden gems at your own pace.

Check availability by choosing a date and book your adventure to Iceland today.  

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Included

7 nights of accommodation (different levels available; breakfast included. More detailed info below)
Vehicle for 8 days (Toyota Aygo or similar. Upgrades available)
CDW insurance for super budget level vehicle; other levels include gravel protection insurance
Free Wi-Fi in vehicle
Detailed itinerary
Personal travel agent
Taxes

Activities

Glacier Hiking
Snorkelling
Caving
Snowmobile
Horse Riding
Whale Watching
Sightseeing
Boat Trip
Hot Spring Bathing
Cultural Activity
Bird watching
Ice Caving
Self drive

Daily itinerary

Day 1
Self-drive customers experience a great degree of freedom when travelling independently from attraction to attraction.

Day 1 - Arrival in Reykjavik

Pick up your car at the international airport in Keflavik before driving through the lunar landscape of the Reykjanes peninsula to your accommodation in downtown Reykjavík. On your way to Iceland’s capital city, you could choose to make a stop at the Blue Lagoon.

This world-renowned spa is known for its healing waters, vivid azure colors, and luxurious treatments. This world-renowned spa is known for its healing waters, vivid azure colors, and luxurious treatments.  It is in the middle of a moss-covered lava field, giving it an otherworldly atmosphere.

The most attractive feature of the Blue Lagoon is the regenerative qualities of its water. It features silica and sulfur that benefit people with various skin ailments. With a temperature averaging 37–39° Celsius (98–102° Fahrenheit), the Blue Lagoon offers a comfortable and relaxing feeling in both the swimming and bathing areas.

If you add the Blue Lagoon, it will be arranged according to your flights. If there is no time to visit the lagoon today, it can be added to another day. Your travel consultant will be able to arrange this for you.

If you have extra free time, there is still plenty to see and do in Reykjavik and the Reykjanes Peninsula.
After settling in at your hotel in Reykjavík, make the most of your proximity to the vibrant city center, and discover the multitude of museums, galleries, restaurants, and bars.

Spend your first night in this beautiful, quirky city.
 

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Day 2
The small peninsula of Dyrhólaey was once known as 'Cape Portland' by passing sailors.

Day 2 - Golden Circle and South Coast

Day two sends you to some of the best-known natural phenomena in Iceland via the sightseeing route known as the Golden Circle.

The first stop is Thingvellir National Park. Here, you can walk along the rift valley of the Mid-Atlantic Ridge, an area that also plays a huge role in Iceland's heritage.

Parliament was founded here in 930 AD, and it is also where Iceland converted to Christianity and declared its independence from Denmark. In this beautiful park, you can opt for a snorkeling tour into the Silfra fissure, a crystal-clear ravine of incredible underwater vistas between the Eurasian and North-American tectonic plates.

The geothermal valley of Haukadalur is the next stop, where you can see the geysers Strokkur and Geysir, amongst many bubbling hot springs. Strokkur puts on an impressive display every 10 minutes or so, erupting to heights that exceed 66 feet (20 meters).

Just a few kilometers away is Iceland's most popular attraction, the mighty waterfall of Gullfoss. A pathway takes you to the water's edge, where you can get a real sense of the incredible power of these enormous falls. From Gullfoss, those with a good sense of adventure can jump on an optional snowmobiling tour on Langjokull glacier.

If neither snorkeling nor snowmobiling tours appeal to you, you may opt for a horse ride in the surrounding South Iceland nature. Another popular sight of the area is the volcanic crater Kerid, which is well worth a visit before continuing to the South Coast.

The rocks of this crater are colored rusty red and fiery orange, and the water that permanently sits within its basin is an incredible, vivid blue. The color contrast, especially when you add green-growing moss, is simply stunning. As you move onto the Ring Road in the South, you will see Seljalandsfoss waterfall, which you can walk all the way around for some great photos behind its water curtain.

A little further down the road is the mesmerizing and mighty Skogafoss waterfall, a roaring beast with a drop of 197 feet (60 meters) and a width nearly half its height. Along the coast near the village Vik, take a slight detour to stop and admire the black volcanic beach Reynisfjara, the dramatic Dyrholaey rock arch, and the eerie Reynisdrangar sea stacks.

However, be very careful of the ocean as the waves along this stretch of coast are notoriously unpredictable and dangerous―all part of the allure of traveling in Iceland.

At the end of your first-rate second day, you'll spend the night in Vik.
 

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Day 3
Diamond Beach is a must-visit among nature enthusiasts and photographers alike, offering unique vistas and stunning aesthetic beauty.

Day 3 - Skaftafell Glaciers - Diamond Beach

On day three, head to the beautiful Skaftafell Nature Reserve within the greater Vatnajokull National Park.
You can choose to start your day with a visit to the natural ice cave within Myrdalsjokull glacier. These are the only natural ice caves accessible outside the winter season, so don't miss the opportunity to visit. 
In Skaftafell, you can spend your time taking in the many stunning sights and exciting activities that are available.

If you enjoy hiking, you will find countless scenic trails and tracks here suitable for all levels of mobility and experience, including one that leads to the beautiful Svartifoss waterfall. Though this waterfall is only 66 feet (20 meters) tall and isn’t known to have raw power like other waterfalls, the breathtaking formation and surroundings make up for those.

Check out the dark, hexagonal basalt columns that made Svartifoss waterfall an appealing destination. Alternatively, you can snap on some crampons and take a glacier hike.

Continuing your road trip, you'll find yourself by one of Iceland's most famous and dazzling attractions, the Jokulsarlon glacier lagoon. Onboard an amphibious boat or a zippy zodiac, you can embark on an optional cruise on the water. You’ll see the lagoon’s serene floating icebergs of all shapes and sizes.

However, even from the shore, the lagoon is stunning, and you have a good chance to see seals playing around the ice. After enjoying the lagoon, take a short walk to the nearby Diamond Beach, where many ice flows wash up on the shore and sparkle like gemstones in the sun.

The Diamond Beach is an impressive black sand strip connecting to the greater Breidamerkursandur glacial plain. It was formed naturally by the icebergs’ erosion and sculpting as they washed up on the shore. Though swimming is not allowed, seeing the icebergs contrasting the volcanic black sand is worth the trip.

After exploring the area, drive a little further ahead and spend the night in the charming town of Hofn.

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Day 4
Puffins not only inhabit the window of souvenir shops, but also the towering cliff faces of Iceland's coastlines.

Day 4 - The Eastern Fjords

The driving on day four will take you on a rollercoaster ride around the rolling hills and seemingly countless fjords of Iceland's eastern coastline. Each fjord seems to have its own soul and spirit, as each promises to take your breath away.

The great Vatnajökull glacier lies to the west, visible when you cross over the high mountain ridges as you make your way north. The many idyllic fishing villages en route make for perfect little rest stops and grant you many opportunities to get to know the locals and learn a little more about Icelandic history and culture. 

The East Fjords are also home to some of the greatest diversity of wildlife in the county. They have many incredible bird-watching sites and seal colonies, and the east is the only place in the country where you can spot herds of wild reindeer.

You'll stay overnight in the 'eastern capital', Egilsstaðir, or one of the nearby villages.

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Day 5
In the Lake Mývatn area, visitors can find such natural attractions as: Skútustaðagígar pseudo-craters, the Dimmuborgir lava formations and Námaskarð Pass.

Day 5 - A Day at Lake Myvatn

On day five, you will head north to the renowned Lake Mývatn. It is highly recommended to take a drive through the Jökulsárgljúfur part of Vatnajökull National Park on the way, visiting  Dettifoss, the most powerful waterfall in Europe.

The Lake Mývatn area is simply stunning. It is known for its geothermal landscapes, including the Námaskarð Pass, the Skútustaðagígar pseudo-craters, the Dimmuborgir lava formations, and Mt. Krafla, one of Iceland's most iconic volcanoes.

You can join a whale-watching tour at the nearby village of Húsavík, known as the whale-watching capital of Europe, and even upgrade it to a rib boat tour to fit in some puffin watching as well. Skjálfandi bay is a very reliable place to observe the magnificent humpback whale feeding in the shallows.

Later on, take a dip in the soothing geothermal waters of the Mývatn Nature Baths―the perfect way to relax after a full day of sightseeing. Afterward, continue to the charming 'capital of the north', Akureyri, where you will spend the night.

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Day 6
North Iceland is a great location for whale watching and has one of the highest success rates.

Day 6 - Trollaskagi Peninsula

On day six, spend the morning enjoying Akureyri, a charismatic town hosting many unique shops and museums. It also has one of the world's northernmost botanical gardens, which is well worth a stroll through.

Once you have made the most of the town, set out to explore the Tröllaskagi peninsula, home to Iceland's tallest mountains outside the central Highlands. You can also opt into a whale watch if you skipped it the day before.

Continuing towards Skagafjörður, a valley known for its abundance of Icelandic horses (where you can take another horse-ride), you will pass through the beautiful mountainous area of Tröllaskagi, the old herring-fishing village of Siglufjörður, and Hofsós, where you can enjoy the gorgeous scenery while you relax in the town's geothermal infinity pool.

Spend the night in the vicinity of Sauðárkrókur.

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Day 7
Sizable populations of Icelandic Horses live outside of the country, especially in Mainland Europe and the United States.

Day 7 - Landscapes of the Ring Road

On day seven, explore West Iceland with its diverse attractions, including the Icelandic Settlement Centre in Borgarnes, which details the history of the settlement of our land, and Deildartunguhver, the hot spring with the highest flow in Europe. Further along, be sure to visit the captivating Hraunfossar and Barnafoss waterfalls.

History buffs may also enjoy a detour to Snorrastofa, the medieval research institute in Reykholt, where Iceland's most famous Viking poet, politician, and historian, Snorri Sturluson, wrote the saga Heimskringla in the 13th century. He is also the author of the bible of old Norse mythology, the Edda.

If you have the time, you can also opt for an exciting caving tour at the Víðgelmir lava tubes or adventure into the incredible, man-made Langjökull ice tunnels. You can even take an 'into the volcano' tour, where you descend into the colorful magma chamber of Þríhnúkagígur.

On your way back to Reykjavík, take a short break at Fossatún, a waterfall said to be guarded by a troll woman named Drífa, before spending your last night in the capital.

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Day 8
The Blue Lagoon Spa not only offers a luxury bathing experience, but also fine dining, massage and even retail.

Day 8 - Farewell to Iceland & Departure

Drop off your car at Keflavík airport in time for your departure. For those who have a later flight and choose to visit the Blue Lagoon today, you will finish off your stay unwinding before you head to the airport. This is the perfect place to relax as you bathe in the warm, mineral-rich waters as you look back on the incredible adventure you have just taken in the land of fire and ice. If your flight is later, there are plenty of things to do in Reykjavik.

Alternatively, you can explore the many geological wonders of the Reykjanes peninsula or simply indulge in some last-minute shopping in Reykjavík.

If you have an early flight back home, we wish you a pleasant journey.

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What to bring

Driver's licence
Warm Clothes
Swimsuit
Camera

Good to know

Self-drive tours begin either in Reykjavík City or at Keflavik International Airport. A valid driver's license is required, along with a one-year-long on-road experience. Please be aware that your itinerary may be rearranged to better fit with your arrival date and time.

Although it is summertime, the Icelandic weather can be very unpredictable. Please bring appropriate clothing.

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Accommodation

See our accommodation levels below and our preferred accommodation partners under each day in the daily itinerary.

Bookings for one person will be arranged in single rooms, and bookings for two or more people will share a twin/double or triple room(s).

Teenagers and children will be arranged in the same room with parents. If additional room(s) is needed, additional costs will incur.

Guide to Iceland will provide you with the best available accommodation at the time of your booking from our preferred partners. Please keep in mind that hotel quality in Iceland varies among locations and availability is highly limited. If our preferred partners are fully booked at the time of your booking, we will find another suitable accommodation for you of similar level.

Please note that not all locations offer quality level accommodation. Comfort level accommodation will be arranged at those particular locations, which is reflected in the quality level upgrade price.

We always do our best to accommodate special requests, which may incur additional costs. Press choose a date to find availability.

Comfort

Rooms with a private bathroom in three star hotels or quality guesthouses. Very close to the best attractions at each location. Breakfast is included.

Quality

Rooms with a private bathroom in a four star hotel or superior rooms in a quality three star hotel at the best locations in Iceland. Breakfast is included.

Car

Below you can see the car rental options available for this self-drive tour.

All our vehicles are new or current models, of maximum 2 years of age. Super Budget levels come with standard CDW insurance, while all other levels also include Gravel Protection (GP) insurance. Please note that off-road driving is illegal for all types of cars.

All levels come equipped with free Wi-fi. You can enjoy unlimited data with the Wi-Fi device, which can be connected to up to 10 devices at once. The car rental will provide 24-hour roadside emergency services.

Age requirement for each level can be found below. For all levels, the driver must possess a valid driving license for at least one year before the date of the rental.

We recommend Budget 4X4 level for summer driving and Comfort 4X4 for winter driving.

Super Budget 2WD

A small 2WD vehicle such as Toyota Aygo or similar, fit for basic travelling in everyday conditions. Compact and comfortable for up to 2 travellers with very little luggage. No highland capabilities. The driver must be of 20 years of age or above.

Budget 2WD

A basic 2WD vehicle, such as a Toyota Yaris or similar, suitable for travelling in everyday conditions. Comfortable for 3 travellers with light luggage. This vehicle does not have highland capabilities. The driver must be of 20 years of age or above.

Budget 4x4

A basic 4WD (4X4) jeep or SUV such as a Dacia Duster or similar. Comfortably fit up to 3 travellers with 2 large pieces of luggage. Fit for most travel and decent for snow and off-asphalt driving. Has basic highland capabilities. The driver must be of 20 years of age or above.

Comfort 4x4

A medium-sized 4WD (4x4) jeep or SUV such as a Toyota Rav4 (automatic) and Suzuki Vitara (manual), or similar. Comfortably fit up to 4 travelers with 3 large pieces of luggage. Fit for most travel and good for snow and off-asphalt driving. Has basic highland capabilities. The driver must be of 21 years of age or above.

Luxury 4x4

A large 4WD jeep such as a Toyota Land Cruiser or similar. Comfortable for up to 4 travellers with 4 large pieces of luggage. Fit for nearly all travelling. Has full highland capabilities to drive on accessible mountain roads. The driver must be of 21 years of age or above.

Van

A large 9-seater van such as a Mercedes Benz Vito (4WD manual, has highland capabilities and better suited for winter driving), or similar. Comfortable for 5 to 7 travelers. If seated full, luggage space is limited. The driver must be of 23 years of age or above.

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