Adventurous 9-Day 4x4 Self-Drive and Camping Trip of Iceland's Highlands and Top Attractions

When walking through the dramatic Highlands in summer, you'll be left in no doubt as to why many call Iceland the Land of Ice and Fire.
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Description

Summary

Tour starts
Keflavík Airport
Combination details
4 day tour
Available
July - Sept.
Minimum age
None

Description

Book this nine-day camping self-drive tour to explore the exciting Icelandic Highlands, South Coast, Northwest, and Golden Circle. This tour will delight anyone looking for a chance to disappear into the Icelandic wilderness, pitch a tent next to the glaciers, and hike the trails of our beloved forests.

Camping is the best way to immerse yourself in nature and enjoy this country longer than you otherwise would, as it works within a budget.

Your self-drive tour begins when you pick up your vehicle from the Keflavik International Airport or Reykjavik. You'll get a four-wheel-drive car, a rooftop tent, and all the camping equipment essentials you need for an enjoyable trip. A camping card is also included, allowing you to stay at selected campsites.

Your vehicle is well-equipped for the rugged landscapes of the Icelandic Highlands. You can travel where the wind blows on a self-drive tour, enjoying the freedom and flexibility to do things your way. On this trip, you will traverse harsh terrain into the Landmannalaugar mountain range and drive over the Kjolur highland road to the Kerlingarfjoll mountains.

Many of the gorgeous locations on this tour are only accessible during the peak of summer when the snow has melted and the roads are open. The highlands are the least visited area in Iceland, leaving the terrain beautifully untouched.

For many travelers coming here, it's important to see a mix of famous attractions and secluded spots. There are many hidden gems around Iceland where you can be almost entirely alone in nature. The itinerary you will receive after booking will help ensure you don't miss them. 

You'll also have the chance to drive Iceland's South Coast, get a glimpse of the Northwest coast, see the famous Golden Circle attractions, and spend time in the vibrant capital, Reykjavik.

Plus, add extra activities during the booking process to enhance your holiday. These include glacier hiking, snowmobiling, caving, and ice-caving tours. You also have the opportunity to descend into the colorful magma chamber of an extinct volcano and enter an artificial ice tunnel carved into a glacier.

After an epic nine days, you'll drop your vehicle and tent back at the airport or Reykjavik.

Intrepid travelers love this nine-day tour and rate it highly. This trip includes free cancellation up to 24 hours before departure and you can contact us 24 hours a day, seven days a week with any questions.

Immerse yourself in the wilds of Iceland on this complete nine-day camping tour of the Icelandic Highlands, with time on the South Coast, Northeast, and Golden Circle. Check availability now by choosing a date.

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Included

4x4 rental car with roof top tent for nine days
CDW Insurance
Camping equipment
Free Wi-Fi in vehicle
Travel plan
Camping card for selected camp sites
USB Charger
Taxes
Free cancellation up to 24 hours before departure

Activities

Glacier Hiking
Caving
Hiking
Snowmobile
Sightseeing
Hot Spring Bathing
Cultural Activity
Ice Caving
Self drive

Daily itinerary

Day 1
Visitors who have a short time in Reykjavik could look to see what shows are going on in the popular concert hall and conference centre, Harpa.

Day 1 - Arrival in Reykjavik

Pick up your four-wheel-drive rental car from the international airport at Keflavík. This car is unique since it has a rooftop tent that can be quickly unfolded to spend the night wherever you are. Drive through the lunar landscape of the Reykjanes Peninsula to Iceland's capital, Reykjavik.

You could stop at the Blue Lagoon geothermal spa on your way to Iceland's capital. This world-renowned spa is known for its healing waters, vivid azure colors, and luxurious treatments. It's in the middle of a moss-covered lava field, giving it an otherworldly atmosphere.

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's still plenty to see and do in Reykjavik and the Reykjanes Peninsula.

After the Blue Lagoon, you can explore the vibrant capital city or head to your campsite in the nearby coastal town of Thorlakshofn. Whatever you choose to do, the endless summer day will make it that much more special.

Reykjavik is a hub of culture and history, with its top attractions offering a diverse experience.

The Hallgrimskirkja church, the city's tallest building with its iconic, modern design inspired by Iceland's volcanic landscape, provides breathtaking views of the city. The Harpa Concert Hall is another architectural marvel hosting various cultural events, from music concerts to theater performances.

The National Museum of Iceland is an essential stop for history enthusiasts, showcasing the nation's cultural heritage from the Viking era to modern times.

After a wonderful introduction to Iceland, set up your tent at the campsite in Thorlakshofn, ready for a cozy night's sleep.

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Day 2
Travellers along the South Coast will find geological marvels at the cliffs of Dyrholaey and the mountain of Reynisfjall.

Day 2 - South Coast with Optional Adventures

On day two of your summer adventure, you will explore the breathtaking nature along the South Coast. 

As you travel towards Vik village, you'll want to stop at the spectacular Seljalandsfoss falls, which you can walk behind for a unique perspective. Not far from Seljalandsfoss is another beautiful waterfall, Skogafoss, the spray of which throws many little rainbows into the air on sunny days.

After the waterfalls, you'll see some magnificent glaciers to your left. At Solheimajokull, you can walk right up to the glacier tongue. The lagoon at its base is a reminder of the effects of climate change, yet a beautiful site to behold.

If you want to walk on the ice, you can opt for a glacier hiking tour here for some awe-inspiring views of the South Coast and informative commentary from your guide. Previous experience isn't necessary, and glacier hiking is an exciting way to explore Solheimajokull's vast icy expanse.

Those seeking the ultimate thrills can opt for a snowmobiling tour on the Langjokull glacier instead. There's nothing like the adrenaline rush of zooming across the ice while enjoying the stunning landscape.

Towards the day's end, you'll reach the black sandy beach Reynisfjara, known for its impressive basalt columns and sea stacks. The sea stacks are called Reynisdrangar, and as well as being striking in appearance, they're steeped in folklore. Legend says they used to be trolls dragging a ship toward the shore who turned to stone at daybreak.

Nearby is Vik, a charming village known for its incredible natural beauty. It's surrounded by high bird cliffs and marked by iconic features such as the Reynisdrangar sea stacks, Reynisfjara beach, and the impressive Myrdalsjokull glacier. Despite its small population, the village is a vital service center for visitors.

You'll spend the night in a campground in South Iceland.

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Day 3
Iceland's south and Highlands have countless waterfalls; the one pictured here is the little-known Thjofafoss.

Day 3 - Day of the Waterfalls

On day three, you'll backtrack a little to Hella town and go inland on a self-drive tour of some of Iceland's incredible waterfalls. While many guests only get to see the Gullfoss waterfall on the Golden Circle throughout their entire stay, you'll see Haifoss, Gjain, Hjalparfoss, and Thjofafoss all in one day.

Before departing on your waterfall adventure, you can opt for a morning ice cave tour departing from Vik. Ice-caving is usually reserved as a winter-only activity, so this is a unique opportunity. You'll explore the Katla ice cave with its magnificent colors and ice formations, the only ice cave available to summer travelers.

Then it's time to begin your waterfall driving trail. Each cascade has its unique charm, and all are excellent examples of Iceland's unbeatable natural beauty.

Haifoss is the second tallest in the country, at 400 feet (122 meters), and can only be reached with a 4x4 vehicle. It plummets into a deep canyon and is renowned for its sheer power, dramatic drop, and the stunningly beautiful surrounding landscape.

You'll also see Gjain, a small, picturesque valley with charming waterfalls, tranquil streams, and lush vegetation, offering a fairy-tale-like setting amid surrounding volcanic landscapes.

Hjalparfoss is a distinctive double waterfall located in the Thjorsaadalur valley. Its twin streams of water drop into a serene pool, surrounded by lush vegetation and rugged basalt rock formations. Its name means "help's waterfall," as it was historically a resting place where travelers found fresh water after a treacherous journey.

Thjofafoss is next to Burfell mountain and boasts an excellent view of Hekla volcano in the background. 
With its waters tumbling from 38 feet (11.6 meters) over a wide cliff, framed by the rugged landscape of the Thjorsa Valley, Thjofafoss is an awe-inspiring spectacle.

You'll spend the night at a campsite near Fludir village.

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Day 4
The most popular region of the highlands, for its rhyolite mountains, hot springs, and steaming rivers, is in the south, and called Landmannalaugar.

Day 4 - Landmannalaugar in the Icelandic Highlands

Drive to the Landmannalaugar mountain range, where you'll spend the day. This unbelievably beautiful highland area has incredibly colorful landscapes and diverse scenery. You'll see mountains in yellow, red, green, and blue. Amid black lava fields, green and grey moss, azure rivers and lakes, and steaming geothermal activity, it's a feast for the senses.

This area has a wealth of hiking trails, and there are no roads to interfere with your enjoyment. Landmannalaugar marks one end of Laugavegur, Iceland's most famous and popular hiking trail. It's considered one of the most beautiful treks in the world, and you could hike part of it today. 

Or, take the Blahnjukur volcano loop, a popular half-day hike from Landmannalaugar. This trail, approximately 2.4 miles (four kilometers) long, takes hikers around and up the blue-green Blahnjukur volcano. It offers panoramic views of the striking rhyolite mountains, vast lava fields, and the Laugahraun obsidian lava flow.

With an average completion time of about three to four hours, it's an excellent choice for those who wish to explore the area thoroughly and allow time to soak in the natural geothermal pools upon return. Be sure to bring your swimsuit for any trek, and keep an eye out for the hot pools hidden in this unique landscape.

Those who prefer not to hike can spend plenty of time relaxing in the natural hot pools at Landmannalaugar. Fed by a geothermal stream, these pools maintain a warm temperature year-round, providing a relaxing natural bath amid the stunning rhyolite mountains and vast lava fields.

Leave Landmannalaugar in the late afternoon or evening to find a campsite in Southwest Iceland, near the area of Gullfoss waterfall and the Geysir geothermal area. After an epic day of exploration, retire to your cozy tent and enjoy a comfortable night's sleep, ready for another exciting day tomorrow.

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Day 5
The Kjolur Highland Road connects North and South Iceland, and in its centre is a geothermal area called Kerlingarfjoll.

Day 5 - Golden Circle Attractions

Today, you'll start with two of the three stops on the Golden Circle (you'll get to see the third a little later). The first, the Gullfoss waterfall, is considered Iceland's most beautiful waterfall by many. It thunders down two stages into an impressive gorge. The upper stage is 36 feet (11 meters) high, and the lower is 69 feet (21 meters).

From Gullfoss, you can opt for a snowmobiling tour on the Langjokull glacier, where you race across the white expanse, breathing in the fresh mountain air and feeling the adrenaline surge through your veins.

Next, you'll head to the Geysir geothermal area. Strokkur is the active geyser here, spouting boiling water 65-131 feet (20-40 meters) into the air every few minutes. It's beside Geysir, the first geyser named in Western literature, giving all others their name. Currently, it's not very active, but the surrounding geothermal area is anything but dull, with hot springs, mud pots, and steaming vents. 

You'll spend the night at the campsite near Geysir, but you can do a little more exploring before you head there. 

Kerid is a striking volcanic crater lake in the Grimsnes area in South Iceland. It's known for its vibrantly colored red and green walls and deep blue waters. It's unique among other volcanic craters in the area, mainly because it's the only one filled with water. You can walk up to its rim, around the top, and down to the lake.

Faxi is a small waterfall nearby, located on the Tungufljot river. Though not as high as other waterfalls, Faxi is impressively broad and has a tranquil beauty, including a small pond at its base that adds to its charm.

Skaholt, in contrast, is a place of great historical and cultural importance in Iceland. During the Middle Ages, it was one of the leading centers where a bishop lived and worked. It's best known today for its beautiful modern cathedral, built in the 20th century, yet it maintains its historical charm.

You could also head to the Kjolur Highland road to explore the beautiful Kerlingarfjoll, a stunning highland area reminiscent of Landmannalaugar, full of colorful mountains and hot springs. You could also leave your Highland visit until morning.

When you're ready to retire, head to your campsite in Southwest Iceland near Geysir.

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Day 6
The central highlands have rhyolite mountains and hot spring areas, just like Landmannalaugar.

Day 6 - Kerlingarfjoll and Hveravellir in the Icelandic Highlands

Start the day by heading into the Highlands. Whether you visited the Kerlingarfjoll area yesterday, you should still stop there and explore further. If you wish, you could take a hike up to the roots of a glacier. 

The trail begins at the Kerlingarfjoll Mountain Resort. From there, you'll start your journey through the Hveradalir geothermal area, known for its steaming vents, boiling mud pools, and brightly colored rhyolite rocks.

Continuing along the trail, you'll steadily ascend toward the glacial roots. This part of the trail can be challenging due to steep inclines and uneven surfaces, but your effort is rewarded with stunning panoramic views of snow-capped peaks and ancient glaciers.

The trail leads to the edge of a glacier, where you can see how it carves the mountain landscape, sculpting valleys, and ridges. Don't venture onto the glacier without a guide or specialized equipment.

This round-trip hike can be completed in about five to six hours, depending on your pace and weather conditions. It's a moderately difficult trail due to the steep ascent and high altitude, so it's advised to be appropriately equipped and check weather conditions before setting off. 

If you don't wish to hike today, head to the Hveravellir nature reserve after taking in Kerlingarfjoll's beauty. At Hveravellir, you'll see colorful sinters, smoking fumaroles, hot springs, and a geothermal hot pool. There are many excellent hikes and beautiful vistas here.

The nature reserve also boasts the Oskurholl ("scream-hill"), a volcanic crater where steam constantly rises from the ground, creating a mystical aura. After exploring, you can relax in the natural hot pool, the perfect spot to soak and unwind, with the ethereal Icelandic landscape as your backdrop.

Once you've thoroughly enjoyed the region, continue your drive towards one of the villages in Northwest Iceland, where you'll spend the night.

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Day 7
The monolith Hvitserkur is said to be a petrified troll, although most think it more resembles a dragon or elephant.

Day 7 - The Vatnsnes Peninsula of Northwest Iceland

On day seven, you'll drive along the Vatnsnes peninsula, Iceland's number one seal-watching location. The area is home to a large colony of seals, primarily harbor and grey seals, that can often be spotted lounging on the rocks or swimming in the sea.

The prime spots to observe seal colonies on the Vatnsnes Peninsula are near the Svalbard and Illugastadir farms. Both locations have parking facilities and directional signage to help visitors reach the best viewing areas without extensive walking. Illugarstadir further offers amenities like restrooms and binoculars for visitors' use.

For the most successful seal sightings, plan your visit around the low tide times, ideally two hours before or after, under clear weather conditions.

The Vatnsnes Peninsula is home to the rock formation Hvitserkur. Hvitserkur is only 50 feet (15 meters) tall but striking nonetheless. It's a monolith that resembles an animal. Most people think of an elephant taking a drink.

Continue south past Bifrost University and visit Deildartunguhver, Europe's highest-flowing hot spring. Waterfalls and volcanic craters dot the road along the way, providing many perfect places to stop and stretch your legs.

Known for its impressive steam plumes, the hot spring reaches temperatures of up to 212 F (100 C). Its hot water serves a practical purpose, too, as it's piped to nearby towns for heating. A visit to Deildartunguhver provides a unique opportunity to witness the power of geothermal energy, with pathways and viewing platforms that allow visitors to get a safe and close view of the spring.

Not far from Deildartunguhver are the stunning Hraunfossar and Barnafoss waterfalls. They are located right next to each other, but each has a unique beauty. Hraunfossar, often called the "Lava Falls," consists of a series of rivulets seeping out of a vast lava field. Barnafoss, the "Children's Falls," is characterized by its forceful, churning blue waters rushing through a narrow basalt gorge.

You'll spend the night at the campsite in West Iceland, near Varmalnd and the historic Reykholt area.

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Day 8
Thingvellir National Park, on the Golden Circle, is a place where history, geology, culture and stunning nature come together.

Day 8 - Kaldidalur and Thingvellir

Drive along Kaldidalur valley on day eight, an interior route renowned for its haunting beauty. On this day, you can head to one of three activities. 

Your first option is caving in the fascinating Vidgelmir lava tube, one of Iceland's largest and most impressive lava tubes. Vidgelmir extends over 0.9 miles (1.5 kilometers) and showcases stunning features, including colorful lava formations, stalactites, stalagmites, and ice formations.

A guide will lead you through the well-preserved tube, allowing you to explore the fascinating underground world created by volcanic activity thousands of years ago.

Or, you could explore the stunning insides of the Langjokull glacier through an artificial channel. The ice tunnel stretches deep into the glacier, and an expert guide will tell you about the glacier's geology on this once-in-a-lifetime tour.

Your third tour option is visiting the magma chamber of the sleeping volcano Thrihnukagigur. It last erupted over 4,000 years ago and features a massive magma chamber visitors can descend into via an open cable lift.

The multi-colored rock walls inside the chamber give an incredible insight into the powerful geological forces that have shaped our planet. This tour is one-of-a-kind globally, offering visitors a safe yet thrilling descent into an underground world typically hidden beneath the Earth's crust.

After an exciting tour of your choice, head to the Thingvellir National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and the third and final stop on the Golden Circle. You can walk between the North American and Eurasian tectonic plates here.

You can also explore this site to learn about Iceland's fascinating history. It was here that early settlers founded the nation's first representative parliament and also where Iceland declared its independence from Denmark.

Afterward, you'll return to a campsite in South Iceland, where you'll spend the night.

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Day 9
Reykjavik is full of things to do, from museums, to art galleries, shopping, parks, pools, and more.

Day 9 - City of Reykjavik and Departure

After more than a week in Iceland's highlands, enjoy the contrast of being in Iceland's capital city.

For those who have a later flight and choose to visit the Blue Lagoon today, you'll finish 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 and reflect 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.

Immerse yourself in Iceland's unique geothermal culture with a visit to the Laugardalslaug swimming pool, where locals and visitors alike enjoy the naturally heated pools and hot tubs.

You could also visit the Reykjavik Art Museum, spread across three locations, to appreciate contemporary and classical art from local and international artists.

For a genuinely Icelandic experience, explore the quirky shops on Laugavegur street, where you can find hand-knitted woolen goods, local crafts, and Icelandic design pieces. Or, visit the Perlan Museum, with its impressive observation deck and fascinating exhibitions about Iceland's unique geology and natural wonders.

Those who prefer could see other attractions on the Reykjanes Peninsula other than the famed Blue Lagoon spa.

The Bridge Between Continents is a must-visit site, symbolically connecting the Eurasian and North American tectonic plates. The Reykjanesviti lighthouse and the rugged cliffs surrounding it provide beautiful views of the Atlantic Ocean. Gunnuhver is nearby, a powerful and colorful geothermal area named after an old Icelandic ghost story.

The Krysuvik geothermal area is another natural wonder, where you can walk among bubbling mud pools and steaming volcanic vents. Lastly, the charming town of Grindavik offers a taste of local life and the chance to try traditional Icelandic cuisine.

You'll head to the airport in plenty of time to return your rental car and check-in for your flight. We wish you a pleasant journey and hope to see you again soon.

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What to bring

Warm clothes
Swimwear

Good to know

Off-road driving is illegal in Iceland. It is a highly fined offense. Avoid legal problems and stay on marked highland roads and paths. Believe us, this will already be adventure enough! Also note that highland roads are closed during wintertime, which generally open in mid-June and close in September.

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

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

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Car

The vehicles offered for our self drive camping tours are highland capable and equipped with a roof top tent and necessary camping equipment suitable for two people. They come with Wi-Fi and CDW insurance.

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