Arctic Iceland Self Drive

Arrive at Keflavík airport where you will collect your hire car. Set off on your self-drive adventure by heading south to the country's geothermal area. Take the chance to visit Iceland's famous Blue Lagoon to relax in the healing mineral waters.

Today you'll enjoy exploring some of Iceland's most spectacular natural wonders. Visit Thingvellir National Park, the site of the ancient Icelandic Viking parliament and admire the Gullfoss waterfall and the Geysir hot spring area.

After breakfast, head out on the south coast to discover the Skogafoss and Seljalandsfoss waterfalls and Myrdalsjokull glacier. Take a guided snowmobile or ice hiking tour and in the afternoon explore Iceland’s southernmost village of Vik. Take a stroll along Reynisfjara beach with its black, lava sand.

Drive along Iceland's famous Route 1, taking in incredible views of the Vatnajokull glacier. Visit the idyllic oasis of the Skaftafell area and embark on a guided hike on one of the park's glaciers to explore the ice caves, snowy mountain peaks, active geothermal areas and rivers. Continue onto the Jokulsarlon Glacial Lagoon and visit the famous black sands of Diamond Beach.

Today you'll discover Iceland's Eastfjords with its striking mountain peaks and picturesque fishing villages. Discover authentic Icelandic restaurants and shops in Egilsstadir before continuing on to the Langanes Peninsula, an outdoor haven for hikers and birdwatchers. 

After breakfast, drive along the Arctic Coast Way towards Raufarhofn. Here you can enjoy several easy walking trails to the beach and the lighthouse. Perhaps stop for lunch at the popular Kaupfelagid Restaurant, known for delicious Icelandic meals and cakes. In the afternoon drive across Iceland's isolated “Arctic Fox plain,” or discover the charming fishing village of Kopasker. You might want to visit Dettifoss, Europe's largest waterfall. Spend the night in the Husavik area. 

Driving westward, visit the beautiful Godafoss waterfall and stroll through the historic town of Akureyri, with its bustling cultural scene, art galleries and one of Iceland's best geothermal swimming pools. Head along the dramatic coastline to Siglufjordur, enjoying spectacular views of the Icelandic Alps dropping into the sea. In Siglufjordur, enjoy a variety of activities like golf, hiking or whale watching. Spend the evening in a local restaurant taking in the incredible fjord views.

Enjoy a day discovering beautiful landscapes and Viking legends. Drive to Skagafjordur, known for horse breeding and its medieval history and stop in Hofos with its unique infinity pool. Discover the history of Holar or take a guided boat tour out to Drangey Island from Saudarkrokur harbour to enjoy hiking with the chance to view seabirds and puffins. Spend the night in the Laugarbakki area.

Your route today is one of Iceland's areas for seal watching. Enjoy a guided seal watching tour at the Seal Center in Hvammstangi town, explore the Vatnsnes Peninsula or spot seal colonies on Illugastadir Beach. Here, you can try Icelandic seafood, popular with the locals before continuing on for a view of Hvitserkur arch. Unwind for your overnight stay in the eco-friendly town of Stykkisholmur. 

Discover the spectacular Snaefellsnes Peninsula, and Iceland's iconic Kirkjufell mountain. Enjoy a number of activities including glacier hiking to discover the Vatnshellir lava cave, whale watching near Olafsvik, and sea kayaking near Kirkjufell. In the beautiful area of Borgarfjordur you will find beautiful handicrafts and taste local farm products. Spend the night in Reykjavik.

Enjoy a final morning in Iceland exploring Reykjavik. Drive back to the airport to return your hire car before your return flight home.