7-Day Northern Lights Self-Drive Tour Through the Golden Circle and South Iceland

Today, you will explore the Snaefellsnes Peninsula, where you will find the picturesque stratovolcano Snaefellsjokull. This volcano is also a glacier and is famous for being the entryway for the subterranean journey in Jules Verne's classic novel 'Journey to the Centre of the Earth.'

For your own chance for a subterranean journey into a volcano, you may take a tour of Thrihnukagigur. If you are traveling in September or October, you can board a tour bus in Reykjavik that will take you to this inactive volcano, where you will descend into the now-empty magma chamber.

Once you are ready to hit the road, you will make your way to the stunning Snaefellsnes Peninsula. Snaefellsjokull National Park, a treasure trove of natural beauty, awaits your discovery. Towering ocean cliffs, intricate rock formations, narrow canyons, delicate waterfalls, charming fishing villages, and the enchanting Djupalonssandur black pebble beach all beckon your exploration.

Nearby is also the famous Kirkjufell mountain, a picturesque mountain in Iceland known for its unique cone-shaped peak and stunning surroundings. It has become a popular photography and hiking destination due to its striking beauty and prominence in the Icelandic landscape. 

On a clear day, you have a view of the Faxafloi Bay all the way to the Snaefellsnes peninsula.

If you did not opt for the 'Into the Volcano' tour, you can instead participate in a horseback riding excursion or geothermal spa experience today.

The horseback ride will occur before you set out on your Snaefellsnes adventure, taking you through breathtaking landscapes near Reykjavik. 

The spa experience, meanwhile, is held in the beautiful Krauma Spa, which overlooks - and is fueled by - Europe's highest-flowing hot spring, Deildartunghver.

Remember to look out for the northern lights tonight as you will spend the night in a country hotel in Western Iceland, an area well suited for aurora hunting.

Today, it is time to visit torn landscapes, an erupting geyser, and a thundering waterfall, all part of the fantastic Golden Circle. 

Start your drive heading south, but before you reach the famous attractions of the Golden Circle, you'll have the option of visiting Vidgelmir, a massive lava tube near the town of Borgarfjordur. The walls of this cave are colored vividly with minerals from the earth, and inside, you'll find strangely shaped rock formations and icicles.

You'll then make your way to Thingvellir National Park, a historic site located on the boundaries of the Eurasian and North American tectonic plates. As the plates move, they tear up the landscape around, causing cracks and fissures in the region.

One of these fissures, Silfra, is filled with meltwater from Iceland's second-largest glacier. You can opt for a snorkeling tour in Silfra fissure, where the glacial water provides incredible visibility that can reach up to 328 feet (100 meters). Participants need to be comfortable in the water and be able to swim.  

You don't need to worry about the cold in Silfra. You'll be given a drysuit to keep you warm.

From there, drive on out to the Geysir geothermal area, where you'll find the active geyser Strokkur. Strokkur erupts in a water column every 5-10 minutes, reaching heights of around 49 - 66 ft (15-20 meters). You'll have plenty of opportunities to capture the perfect photo of this amazing display of nature.

A short drive from the Geysir area is the magnificent Gullfoss waterfall. Spanning the entire width of the Hvita river, this cascade features two distinct drops in succession, creating two 'steps' for the water to plunge down.

The thundering noises of glacial water hurling down 105 feet (32 meters) into an ancient canyon will echo in your ears for long after your departure.

If you want a different kind of tour today, you can join a thrilling monster truck adventure up the glacial slopes of Langjokull glacier. This trip will expose you to amazing views and beautiful surroundings. 

Alternatively, you could explore the world under Iceland's landscapes by booking a Vidgelmir lava caving tour. A final option is a revitalizing dip in the healing waters of the Fontana Spa, which is nestled in a lake.

Be sure to look up in the sky at night for a chance to spot the dancing northern lights.

You will spend the night near the Golden Circle.

On your fourth day, you'll start traveling the stunning South Coast of Iceland. Today, you'll drive past mighty glaciers to visit some of the country's most beautiful attractions.

Start your day by heading to Seljalandsfoss waterfall, a high, narrow cascade that falls over a concaved cliff face. This gorgeous waterfall is lit up by strong lights in the winter, making it seem even more magical. 

You'll travel past Eyjafjallajokull glacier on your way to the next attraction of the day, Skogafoss waterfall. This waterfall has a more classic shape than his sister site, Seljalandsfoss. It is much wider, and the land under it is very flat, so you'll be able to walk right up to the wall of water.

If you'd like to get to know glaciers better, today is the day to do so. You can opt for a snowmobile tour on the massive Myrdalsjokull glacier, which covers the volcano Katla. You'll get your blood pumping by whizzing across the white expanse with snow-topped mountains in the distance. 

You could also opt for a glacier hike on top of Solheimajokull, one of Myrdalsjokull's glacier tongues. Fill your lungs with the cold, crisp mountain air as you traverse past blue crevasses and snowy peaks blackened by ash from past volcanic eruptions.

Other options today include a horseback riding tour through the beautiful landscapes of South Iceland or a shorter visit to the stables to get to know Icelandic horses, complete with hot drinks. Finally, you can start the day with a visit to the Caves of Hella, artificial caves with a wealth of history and folklore.

Make your way to the village of Vik and stop by the stunning Reynisfjara. This black sand beach is surrounded by cliffs of hexagonal basalt columns that are both strange and beautiful at the same time. The massive Reynisdrangar sea stacks are out in the ocean as the North Atlantic waves crash upon them with full force.

You will spend the night in your chosen accommodation in South Iceland.

From Vik, the journey continues eastward towards the beautiful Jokulsarlon glacier lagoon in Vatnajokull National Park. The drive itself offers breathtaking views as you pass by dramatic landscapes and rugged coastlines, adding to the sense of adventure.

Before departure, however, you can embark on a black-sand buggy tour across the beautiful landscapes around Reynisfjara beach. Feel the thrill of speeding across the unique volcanic terrain, taking in the striking contrasts between the dark sand, crashing waves, and distant cliffs.

While journeying towards the massive Vatnajokull glacier, you will drive past the charming village of Kirkjubaejarklaustur, known for its historical and cultural significance, and the majestic waterfall Foss a Sidu. Take a moment to marvel at the cascading water as it plunges into the river below.

Continuing your adventure, you'll reach Skaftafell Nature Reserve, a haven of natural beauty. Here, beautiful glacier tongues crawl down narrow valleys, creating a stunning spectacle. Consider exploring the reserve on a guided glacier hike, immersing yourself in the icy wonderland, and discovering hidden canyons and intricate ice sculptures.

For an alternative perspective, you can also book a short or long flight over Vatnajokull National Park from Skaftafell. Soar above the vast expanse of glaciers, snow-covered peaks, and rugged landscapes, enjoying some of the most awe-inspiring views in the country.

Finally, you'll arrive at the crown jewel of Iceland, the Jokulsarlon glacier lagoon. Witness massive icebergs that have broken off a nearby glacier floating serenely on the shimmering waters of the lagoon. The ever-changing ice formations and hues create a captivating sight that is truly unforgettable.

At the end of the day, you will find yourself in countryside accommodations in Southeast Iceland, offering a peaceful retreat surrounded by stunning vistas. With a bit of luck, you may even be treated to a dazzling display of the northern lights, adding a touch of magic to your night in this enchanting part of Iceland.

You'll start your day in the gorgeous Vatnajokull National Park, known for its stunning landscapes and icy wonders.

If you are traveling between October and March, you will have the rare opportunity to visit an authentic ice cave. Seize the chance! These caves are only accessible for a short period as they flood with the rising sun. 

Plan a visit during the booking process and start the day immersing yourself in the infinite shades of blue within the ice cave, a truly mesmerizing experience. 

This winter season, two beautiful ice caves have been discovered in the Vatnajokull National Park: the Western Ice Cave and the Eastern Ice Cave. Choose to add this amazing adventure to your trip and visit the best ice cave accessible on the day, taking into account the weather conditions and visibility to ensure the ultimate ice-caving experience.

Afterward, head back to the Jokulsarlon glacier lagoon, where the midday sun illuminates the surroundings in a different light. The amazing colors of the icebergs, with their crystalline blue and pearly white hues, become even more vibrant in the daylight. Keep an eye out for seals lounging on the icebergs or along the shore, adding to the charm of the lagoon.

Close to the lagoon is a black sand beach where smaller icebergs have washed up onshore. As they glisten in the sunlight, the beach earns the nickname "The Diamond Beach," reminiscent of diamonds scattered on a satin blanket. Take some time to appreciate the beauty of this unique coastal gem.

In the afternoon, you'll start making your way back to Reykjavik city. Along the journey, you have the flexibility to stop at your favorite places along the South Coast or explore new ones, adding unexpected discoveries to your adventure.

Finally, you'll spend the night at accommodations in Reykjavik. 

If you arrive in the city early, make the most of your time by exploring its vibrant nightlife scene. Reykjavik is known for its lively atmosphere, with several cozy bars, live music venues, and cultural experiences awaiting you. 

Whether you choose to unwind with a drink, dance to Icelandic tunes, or simply soak in the local culture, your evening in Reykjavik promises an exciting end to a day filled with natural wonders.