Ultimate Iceland Road Trip: 10-Day Self-Drive
From volcanic coastlines to glacier lagoons — discover Iceland at your own pace.
This Iceland self-drive road trip takes you across ten days of extraordinary landscapes, from the lava fields of the Reykjanes Peninsula to the thundering gorges of the North, covering Iceland's most iconic natural and cultural landmarks. With a rental car collected directly at the airport, you control the pace, the stops, and the moments that matter most.
The route loops through the South Shore's dramatic waterfalls and black sand beaches, the ice formations of Vatnajökull National Park, the volcanic wonders around Lake Mývatn, the whale-watching harbour of Húsavík, and the historically layered landscapes of Borgarfjörður before the journey ends with the Golden Circle back in Reykjavík.
Accommodation ranges from countryside guesthouses to quality hotels in Reykjavík, with Classic and Quality categories available depending on your preference. Car options include compact 2WD vehicles for summer travel as well as 4WD models suited for more rugged conditions, with both manual and automatic transmissions on offer.
This itinerary is designed for travellers who prefer independence without sacrificing structure. Each day includes a suggested driving distance and a curated set of stops, while leaving room for spontaneous detours and personal discoveries along the way.
Tour Highlights
Walk behind Seljalandsfoss and stand before the powerful cascade of Skógafoss on Iceland's legendary South Shore.
Witness the floating icebergs of Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon and the diamond-like ice chunks scattered across Diamond Beach.
Join a whale-watching excursion from Húsavík, Iceland's whale-watching capital, with frequent sightings of humpback and minke whales.
Explore Þingvellir National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site where the North American and Eurasian tectonic plates visibly diverge.
Witness Dettifoss, Europe's most powerful waterfall, and the geothermal spectacle of Strokkur erupting at Geysir.
Drive the winding fjord roads of East Iceland and discover the quiet fishing villages and dramatic coastal scenery of the East Fjords.
Photograph Kirkjufell mountain beside Kirkjufellsfoss on the Snæfellsnes Peninsula, one of Iceland's most recognisable natural landmarks.
Itinerary Overview
Collect your rental car at Keflavík Airport and drive through the moss-covered lava fields of the Reykjanes Peninsula before settling into Reykjavík for your first night.
Visit Seljalandsfoss and Skógafoss, then continue to Dyrhólaey and Reynisfjara black sand beach before arriving in the coastal village of Vík í Mýrdal.
Pass through the Skaftafell area, stop at Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon and Diamond Beach, and end the day in the fishing town of Höfn, known for its views of Europe's largest glacier.
Wind through the fjords of East Iceland, passing through fishing hamlets such as Djúpivogur and Fáskrúðsfjörður, before arriving in Egilsstaðir near the legendary Lake Lagarfljót.
Detour to Dettifoss, explore the Krafla volcanic area and Námaskarð geothermal fields, then spend the evening near Lake Mývatn visiting Grjótagjá cave, Hverfjall crater, and Dimmuborgir lava formations.
Head to Húsavík for whale watching or a visit to the Whale Museum, then stop at Goðafoss waterfall before arriving in Akureyri, Iceland's second city, to explore the botanical garden and city centre.
What Is Included
Included
- 9 nights accommodation (Classic or Quality category)
- Rental car for 9 days with basic insurance
- Detailed self-drive itinerary and route guidance
- 24/7 customer support during the trip
- All accommodation taxes and service charges
Not Included
- International and domestic flights
- Fuel costs and parking fees
- Meals and beverages
- Optional tours (whale watching, glacier hikes, cave tours)
- Additional car insurance upgrades
- Personal travel insurance
Important Information
Ready to Drive Iceland?
Secure your place on this 10-day self-drive adventure and explore Iceland's most remarkable landscapes on your own schedule. Availability is limited during peak summer months, so early booking is recommended.
Book Now
