Best Self Drive Tours in Iceland
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Taking Self Drive Tours in Iceland
Self-drive tours in Iceland offer an unparalleled way to explore the land of fire and ice at your own pace. This unique travel experience connects adventurers with Iceland's breathtaking natural beauty.
With its well-maintained road network and easy-to-follow routes, Iceland is a dream destination for independent travelers.
One of the most popular routes is the Ring Road, which encircles the entire island, providing access to diverse landscapes.
Each region unveils its distinct charm from the iconic Golden Circle, featuring the Geysir geothermal area, Gullfoss waterfall, and Thingvellir National Park to the remote East Fjords and the rugged North Iceland.
Self-drive tours provide the flexibility to stop and explore wherever your heart desires. You can embark on short hikes to discover hidden waterfalls, soak in natural hot springs, or capture the mesmerizing beauty of glaciers and volcanic vistas.
It's also an excellent opportunity to engage with Iceland's rich cultural heritage by visiting small fishing villages and local museums.
Our self-drive tours allow you to customize your trip based on your preferences. These come with the convenience of detailed itineraries, rental cars, accommodations, and a wide range of optional activities.
The best part? While you enjoy your freedom in navigating Iceland, you are never really alone. You have a travel agent available 24/7 for any questions or concerns.
Preparing for Iceland's ever-changing weather is crucial, so knowing what to wear and packing suitable clothing and supplies is essential. And remember to prioritize safety on the road, especially during the unpredictable winter months.
Reading about driving in Iceland is also helpful to familiarize yourself with the unique road conditions and safety guidelines. Preparing in advance enhances your safety and allows you to appreciate the stunning landscapes and attractions along your journey.
In Iceland, self-drive tours are a rewarding way to create lasting memories amidst landscapes that seem straight out of a fairy tale.
Frequently asked questions
What is the best self-drive tour in Iceland?
One of the top self-drive tours in Iceland is a seven-day northern lights self-drive tour through South Iceland to Jokulsarlon ice cave. This package has an average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars from over 310 travelers and costs around 418 USD.
Another of the best self-drive tours is this ten-day self-drive tour of the complete Ring Road of Iceland. This tour has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from over 230 travelers and costs about 1,117 USD.
Another highly-rated self-drive tour is an eight-day summer self-drive tour of the Ring Road and Golden Circle. This package has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from over 200 travelers and costs approximately 1,008 USD.
Another of the best self-drive tours is this ten-day self-drive tour of the complete Ring Road of Iceland. This tour has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from over 230 travelers and costs about 1,117 USD.
Another highly-rated self-drive tour is an eight-day summer self-drive tour of the Ring Road and Golden Circle. This package has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from over 200 travelers and costs approximately 1,008 USD.
Is it worth taking a self-drive tour in Iceland?
A self-drive tour in Iceland can be an enriching and unforgettable experience. Iceland's rugged landscapes, dramatic waterfalls, geothermal wonders, and remote beauty are best explored at your own pace.
Renting a car allows you to deviate from the beaten path, discover hidden gems, and enjoy the freedom to stop wherever and whenever you desire. Driving around Iceland also offers flexibility in planning your itinerary.
You can chase the northern lights in winter, visit iconic attractions like the Golden Circle, and soak in natural hot springs. However, it's essential to be prepared for challenging weather conditions, including snow and unpredictable road conditions.
Renting a car allows you to deviate from the beaten path, discover hidden gems, and enjoy the freedom to stop wherever and whenever you desire. Driving around Iceland also offers flexibility in planning your itinerary.
You can chase the northern lights in winter, visit iconic attractions like the Golden Circle, and soak in natural hot springs. However, it's essential to be prepared for challenging weather conditions, including snow and unpredictable road conditions.
What is the cheapest self-drive tour in Iceland?
The cheapest self-drive tour in Iceland is a three-day winter self-drive tour of Iceland with the Golden Circle and South Coast. This excursion costs around 148 USD per person and includes two nights' accommodation and vehicle hire.
One of the other cheapest self-drive tours in Iceland is a budget self-drive tour of Iceland with hot springs and the Golden Circle. The package costs about 159 USD, and includes a detailed itinerary.
Alternatively, this affordable four-day northern lights self-drive tour with day trips from Reykjavik takes you to some of Iceland's most incredible sights. This exciting excursion costs about 214 USD.
One of the other cheapest self-drive tours in Iceland is a budget self-drive tour of Iceland with hot springs and the Golden Circle. The package costs about 159 USD, and includes a detailed itinerary.
Alternatively, this affordable four-day northern lights self-drive tour with day trips from Reykjavik takes you to some of Iceland's most incredible sights. This exciting excursion costs about 214 USD.
What is the difference between a self-drive package and a self-drive activity?
A self-drive package is a multi-day package that includes car rental, accommodation, some activities, and a detailed itinerary. This eight-day northern lights winter self-drive tour of West and South Iceland exemplifies a self-drive package.
A self-drive activity is an activity tour where you meet on location. No transfers are included, so you need a car to get there. Self-drive activities are suitable for people making their own plans for their trip to Iceland rather than booking a package.
This geothermal bathing at the Myvatn Nature Baths excursion exemplifies a self-drive activity.
A self-drive activity is an activity tour where you meet on location. No transfers are included, so you need a car to get there. Self-drive activities are suitable for people making their own plans for their trip to Iceland rather than booking a package.
This geothermal bathing at the Myvatn Nature Baths excursion exemplifies a self-drive activity.
What is the best self-drive activity in Iceland?
One of the top self-drive activities in Iceland is an ice cave tour in Vatnajokull glacier from Jokulsarlon glacier lagoon. This excursion has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from over 1,420 travelers and costs around 160 USD.
Another of the best self-drive tours is this three-hour Skaftafell glacier hiking tour on Vatnajokull glacier. This tour has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from over 490 travelers and costs about 91 USD.
Another highly-rated self-drive tour is an affordable boat tour of Jokulsarlon glacier lagoon. This excursion has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from over 450 travelers and costs approximately 49 USD.
Another of the best self-drive tours is this three-hour Skaftafell glacier hiking tour on Vatnajokull glacier. This tour has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from over 490 travelers and costs about 91 USD.
Another highly-rated self-drive tour is an affordable boat tour of Jokulsarlon glacier lagoon. This excursion has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from over 450 travelers and costs approximately 49 USD.
What is the cheapest self-drive activity in Iceland?
The cheapest self-drive activity in Iceland is an educational visit to Skogar Museum in South Iceland. This excursion costs around 13 USD per person and includes entrance to the museum.
One of the other cheapest self-drive activities in Iceland is a convenient one-hour ferry ride from Flatey Island to Brjanslaekur in West Iceland. This activity costs about 19 USD.
Alternatively, this affordable geothermal culinary tour from the Fontana Spa is a unique experience where you can taste geothermally-baked bread. This exciting excursion costs about 22 USD.
One of the other cheapest self-drive activities in Iceland is a convenient one-hour ferry ride from Flatey Island to Brjanslaekur in West Iceland. This activity costs about 19 USD.
Alternatively, this affordable geothermal culinary tour from the Fontana Spa is a unique experience where you can taste geothermally-baked bread. This exciting excursion costs about 22 USD.
What is a self-drive tour in Iceland?
Self-drive tours are designed to allow you to travel at your own pace with your rental car, accommodations, and excursions all booked for you by a personal travel agent.
When is the best time to go on a self-drive tour in Iceland?
The best time for a self-drive tour depends on your preferences. Summer (June to August) offers pleasant weather and long daylight hours, while winter (December to February) is ideal for viewing the northern lights.
Spring and fall can be less crowded and more budget-friendly.
Spring and fall can be less crowded and more budget-friendly.
How long should my self-drive tour in Iceland ideally be?
The ideal duration for a self-drive tour in Iceland largely depends on your interests and the places you want to explore. However, a minimum of seven to ten days is recommended to cover the famous Ring Road and its key attractions.
For those with limited time, consider taking the four-day northern lights winter self-drive tour of the Golden Circle, glaciers, and black sand beaches or the scenic four-day summer self-drive tour with Iceland's Golden Circle and Vik.
If you have about a week, take this epic seven-day northern lights winter self-drive tour of the Golden Circle and North Iceland or the immersive eight-day summer self-drive tour of Iceland's West and South Coasts with waterfalls and glaciers.
For the ultimate Icelandic experience, two weeks would be ideal for your self-drive tour. Check this epic 14-day self-drive tour of the complete Ring Road of Iceland and the Westfjords or the magical two-week northern lights winter road trip in Iceland with waterfalls and glaciers.
For those with limited time, consider taking the four-day northern lights winter self-drive tour of the Golden Circle, glaciers, and black sand beaches or the scenic four-day summer self-drive tour with Iceland's Golden Circle and Vik.
If you have about a week, take this epic seven-day northern lights winter self-drive tour of the Golden Circle and North Iceland or the immersive eight-day summer self-drive tour of Iceland's West and South Coasts with waterfalls and glaciers.
For the ultimate Icelandic experience, two weeks would be ideal for your self-drive tour. Check this epic 14-day self-drive tour of the complete Ring Road of Iceland and the Westfjords or the magical two-week northern lights winter road trip in Iceland with waterfalls and glaciers.
Can you take a self-drive tour around the entire island of Iceland?
Yes, you can take a self-drive tour in Iceland around the entire island. Iceland's Ring Road goes all the way around the country. This road is well maintained throughout the year, but it is still wise to check the road conditions before you travel each day, especially in the winter.
What are the minimum requirements to rent a car for a self-drive tour in Iceland?
It depends on the Icelandic car rental company. Generally, the minimum car hire age is between 20 and 23. The driver must have held a driver's license for at least one year. You must provide a credit card in the driver's name. Be sure to contact your travel planner for further information.
What are the benefits of a self-drive tour in Iceland?
A self-drive tour in Iceland allows you to explore the country at your own pace and schedule. You have the flexibility to stop and explore attractions that interest you, and you can take as much time as you like at each location.
It's also a cost-effective way to see the country, as you don't have to pay for excursions.
It's also a cost-effective way to see the country, as you don't have to pay for excursions.
Can I change the dates of my self-drive tour in Iceland after I have booked?
Yes, you can change the dates of your self-drive tour in Iceland, but it depends on tour availability. It's important to note that modifying the dates may also alter the overall price.
Are there any must-visit attractions during a self-drive tour in Iceland?
Some popular attractions include the Golden Circle (Geysir geothermal area, Gullfoss waterfall, and Thingvellir National Park), the South Coast (Seljalandsfoss waterfall, Skogafoss waterfall, and Jokulsarlon glacier lagoon), and the Ring Road for a complete circumnavigation of the island.
Can I see the northern lights during a self-drive tour in Iceland?
You can see the northern lights in Iceland during the winter months. Check the aurora forecast and venture away from city lights for the best viewing conditions.
What happens if roads are closed due to weather or a natural disaster, and I can't reach my destination on my self-drive tour in Iceland?
If the roads are closed during your self-drive tour in Iceland, we will assist you with all the necessary arrangements in any way possible. However, our capability depends on the availability of hotels and tours.
There might be extra charges if new hotel or tour bookings are needed, but we will always do our best to rebook without additional costs.
There might be extra charges if new hotel or tour bookings are needed, but we will always do our best to rebook without additional costs.
How and where do I pick up my rental car for my self-drive tour in Iceland?
Where you pick up your rental car for your self-drive tour in Iceland will depend on the rental company. Either a car rental representative will be waiting for you in the Keflavik airport arrivals hall, or you will take a free shuttle to the car rental service station a short distance away.
Be sure to check your voucher for further information.
Be sure to check your voucher for further information.
I arrive late at night, will I be able to pick up my car for my self-drive tour in Iceland?
You can pick up and drop off your car at Keflavik International Airport anytime for your self-drive tour in Iceland.
What kind of car should I rent for a self-drive tour in Iceland?
The type of car you rent for a self-drive tour in Iceland will depend on the season and the locations you plan to visit. For the summer months, renting a small economy car will suffice.
However, renting a 4x4 vehicle is recommended to handle the rugged terrain and snowy roads if you plan to explore the Icelandic Highlands or visit Iceland during the winter.
However, renting a 4x4 vehicle is recommended to handle the rugged terrain and snowy roads if you plan to explore the Icelandic Highlands or visit Iceland during the winter.
Can I book the activities on my self-drive tour in Iceland later?
We recommend that you book activities on your self-drive tour in Iceland when you book your trip, but you can also add activities later.
I'm traveling with a small child for our self-drive tour in Iceland. Will I be provided with a baby car seat? Are there baby cribs in the hotels?
Yes, we are happy to accommodate families of all sizes on self-drive tours in Iceland. Please provide your travel agent with the children's ages, and all the necessary arrangements will be made before your arrival.
What should I bring with me on a self-drive tour in Iceland?
Packaging for various weather conditions is essential, as Iceland's weather can be unpredictable. Bring warm clothing, waterproof and windproof outer layers, sturdy shoes or boots, and a hat and gloves.
It's also a good idea to bring snacks and water, a GPS or map, and a portable phone charger.
It's also a good idea to bring snacks and water, a GPS or map, and a portable phone charger.
Can I add insurance to the rental car for my self-drive tour in Iceland?
You can add all the insurance the car rental company offers for your self-drive tour in Iceland. CDW insurance is included in some self-drive packages. Contact your travel agent to inquire about your options and extra costs.
Do I need to book accommodation in advance for a self-drive tour in Iceland?
Yes, having a place to stay as you drive around Iceland would be best. Your accommodations will be included if you book one of our self-drive packages, and you'll have your choice of hotels and guesthouses in each region of the country.
Can you take a road trip in Iceland on your own?
Yes. You can take a road trip around Iceland on your own. Iceland is one of the safest countries to travel to alone and with a group. On a self-drive tour at your own pace, there's no shortage of beautiful and unique places to stop around Iceland.
How long does a road trip around Iceland take?
You can take a road trip around Iceland's Route 1 in as little as 17 hours with no stops, but we don't recommend planning such a rushed trip.
Most people prefer to spend seven to 14 days on the Ring Road, which should give you plenty of time to stop and take in the sights on your self-drive tour around Iceland.
Most people prefer to spend seven to 14 days on the Ring Road, which should give you plenty of time to stop and take in the sights on your self-drive tour around Iceland.
Is driving in Iceland difficult?
Experienced drivers should have no problem following Iceland's traffic rules and adjusting to the local driving etiquette. Icelanders are primarily patient and courteous on the road and often give pedestrians the advantage even if it slows the driver down.
During winter, driving conditions can be more difficult due to snow, ice, and storms, so we recommend renting a 4x4 vehicle.
During winter, driving conditions can be more difficult due to snow, ice, and storms, so we recommend renting a 4x4 vehicle.
Do I need a special driver's license to drive in Iceland?
To rent a car in Iceland, you must have a driver’s license written in the Latin alphabet or an international driver’s license. Remember to always carry the driver’s license with you, as having a copy of the license is not enough.
What are some popular self-drive routes in Iceland?
Some popular self-drive routes in Iceland include the Golden Circle, the South Coast, and the Ring Road. The Ring Road is a popular route that circles the entire country, taking you to many of Iceland's top attractions.
Is it safe to drive in Iceland?
Due to the country's ever-changing weather conditions and rugged terrain, driving in Iceland can be challenging. It's important to go carefully and pay attention to Iceland's road signs and local weather forecasts.
You should also be aware of potential hazards like driving on gravel roads and be mindful of sheep on the road during summer.
You should also be aware of potential hazards like driving on gravel roads and be mindful of sheep on the road during summer.
What should I know about fuel and gas stations in Iceland?
Gas stations are readily available along major routes, but in more remote areas, they can be scarce. It's a good practice to fill up your tank whenever you can, especially in rural regions.
Is it necessary to rent a GPS or use a navigation app for a self-drive tour in Iceland?
While optional, renting a GPS or using a navigation app can be extremely helpful, especially in remote areas with limited road signs. Many car rental companies offer GPS rentals or recommend specific apps for navigation, and some self-drive packages include GPS rentals.
What is the F-road system in Iceland, and can I drive on F-roads with a regular rental car?
F-roads are mountain roads in Iceland, and they are often unpaved and only accessible during the summer months. You generally need a 4x4 or high-clearance vehicle to drive on F-roads.
Regular rental cars are not allowed on these roads, so check road conditions and your vehicle's capabilities before attempting to drive them.
Regular rental cars are not allowed on these roads, so check road conditions and your vehicle's capabilities before attempting to drive them.
Are there any wildlife concerns while driving in Iceland?
Yes, Iceland has a variety of wildlife, including sheep, reindeer, and seabirds. It's essential to be cautious and watch for animals crossing the road, especially in rural areas. Also, be aware of bird nesting areas and slow down when driving near cliffs or coastal regions.
What should I know about parking in Iceland's popular tourist areas?
Parking is generally available at most tourist attractions but can get crowded during peak seasons. Follow designated parking areas and be prepared to pay for parking at some sites. Avoid parking in restricted or sensitive environmental areas to preserve Iceland's natural beauty.
Are there any specific driving regulations or road signs unique to Iceland?
Iceland has its own set of road signs and driving regulations, which may differ from those in your home country. Before starting your self-drive tour, familiarize yourself with Icelandic road signs and traffic rules.
