Self-drive tour in Iceland

Day 1. Arrival and the Reykjanes Peninsula

Arrive at Keflavík Airport, collect your rental car, and head towards the Reykjanes Peninsula. The landscapes here are otherworldly, featuring black lava fields, steaming hot springs, dramatic cliffs, and ancient craters.

Between 2021 and 2024, dormant volcanoes in Reykjanes sprang to life after centuries of silence! These eruptions transformed the terrain and made the area irresistibly alluring to travellers.

Highlights to explore:‍

• Fagradalsfjall Volcano: Known as the "Volcano of the Beautiful Valley," it erupted spectacularly on 19 March 2021 after a 6,000-year slumber, creating a striking landscape of solidified lava.
• Lava Cliffs near Grindavík: Enjoy breathtaking views of the Atlantic Ocean, shaped by wind and waves.‍
• Krýsuvík Geothermal Area: A surreal realm of bubbling mud pools and vividly coloured ground in red, yellow, and green shades.

Wear comfortable shoes — you’ll want to explore for hours!

After a busy day of driving and hiking, we recommend unwinding at the Blue Lagoon, a geothermal spa resort. Picture yourself sitting in warm, milky-blue water, with steam rising around you and black lava fields stretching into the distance. The water is rich in silica and is known for its rejuvenating effects on the skin, while the unique atmosphere soothes both body and mind.

Once fully relaxed in the Lagoon, continue to Hveragerði, located in a geothermal region. Here, even the pavements are naturally heated during winter!

Day 2. Geysers, Gullfoss Waterfall, and Thingvellir National Park

Today, you will explore the natural wonders of Iceland's Golden Circle, a route spanning approximately 300 kilometres and famed for its breathtaking scenery.

The first stop is the Geysir Geothermal Valley, where boiling pools, bubbling springs, and hot steam plumes showcase nature's raw power. The Strokkur geyser takes centre stage here, erupting every 5 to 10 minutes with jets of water reaching heights of up to 30 metres. Although the Great Geysir, which gave its name to geysers worldwide, is now rarely active, Strokkur delights visitors with its regular displays.

Next, continue your journey to Gullfoss, the magnificent two-tiered "Golden Waterfall." Its powerful cascades plunge dramatically, creating the illusion of water disappearing into the earth's crevice.

The day concludes with a visit to Thingvellir National Park, an immense cultural and geological site. Amidst stunning landscapes lies the historic Viking Parliament, established in 930 AD. Thingvellir also offers a unique opportunity to witness the rifting of the North American and Eurasian tectonic plates. Stroll through the Almannagjá Gorge to grasp the scale of these natural forces. The park's trails lead to historical landmarks, immersing you in this remarkable site's rich history and striking beauty.

After a busy day, head to the Borgarfjörður area. The route will take you either through Hvalfjörður or along the extensive off-road track of Kaldidalur.

Borgarfjörður is renowned for its Viking Age history. The protagonist of the famous Icelandic epic “The Saga of Egil,” the warrior and poet Egil Skallagrímsson, was born here.

You will spend the night in Borgarfjörður.

Day 3. Picturesque waterfalls, a powerful hot spring, and the Skagafjord

Begin the day at Hraunfossar, a series of waterfalls that flow gracefully out of a lava field created by an eruption beneath the Langjökull glacier. Nearby is Barnafoss ("Children's Waterfall"), steeped in a poignant legend about children who tragically drowned in its waters. The narrow, churning streams lend the waterfall a stark, dramatic beauty.

The next stop is the Deildartunguhver hot spring, the most powerful in Europe. It produces 180 litres of boiling water per second, naturally providing geothermal energy to heat nearby communities.

For a relaxing interlude, visit the Krauma Natural Geothermal Spa, where the hot waters of Deildartunguhver are mixed with cold glacial water to create the ideal bathing temperature. Krauma features five natural geothermal baths, a cold plunge pool to invigorate circulation, two saunas, and a serene relaxation room where you can unwind by the fireplace, accompanied by soothing music.

Later, seize the opportunity to explore the ice cave at Langjökull. This thrilling tour includes a ride in rugged off-road vehicles and a guided walk through the mesmerising ice tunnels.

Take some time to explore Reykholt, the historic village where the renowned Icelandic saga writer and politician Snorri Sturluson lived. His celebrated works, including “Egil's Saga” and “Heimskringla” (“The Circle of the Earth”), are key sources of Viking mythology and history.

Your journey continues to the Skagafjord region, famous for its fertile valleys, Icelandic horse breeding, and historical sites. Visit Glaumbær, an old church village and museum featuring a typical 18th-century turf farm and two charming 19th-century timber houses.

End the day at one of the cosy hotels in northwest Iceland, perfect for a restful evening.

Day 4. Gardens, museums, the "Waterfall of the Gods," and whale-watching

Today, explore the city of Akureyri, renowned for its cosy atmosphere and charming wooden buildings, many of which have been lovingly restored to their original style. It’s the perfect place to immerse yourself in the culture of northern Iceland.

Highlights to explore:‍

• Akureyri Art Museum: A showcase of contemporary art that embodies Iceland’s creative spirit.
• Nonni’s House: The childhood home of Jón Sveinsson, a 19th-century writer whose heartwarming tales of life in Iceland have delighted generations.
• Akureyri Botanical Garden: An impressive array of plant species flourishing near the Arctic Circle.

In Dalvik, set against the picturesque backdrop of Eyjafjörður, embark on a whale-watching adventure. Spot humpback whales, dolphins, minke whales, porpoises, and occasionally fin, killer, or blue whales. Whale sightings occur on 98% of tours, and if you're among the rare unlucky few, a free repeat trip is offered.

On your way to Lake Mývatn, stop at Goðafoss, one of Iceland’s most stunning waterfalls. According to legend, a Viking chieftain cast pagan idols into its waters, symbolising Iceland’s embrace of Christianity.

End the day at Lake Mývatn, surrounded by striking volcanic landscapes and a thriving ecosystem. Overnight stay near the lake.

Day 5. Volcanic formations, geothermal wonders, and rich birdlife

Begin the day by walking along the "Dark Castles" plateau at Dimmuborgir — a labyrinth of solidified lava resembling a science fiction film scene. Winding paths, caves, and bizarre stone columns create a mystical atmosphere. According to Icelandic legends, Dimmuborgir is home to trolls and even serves as a gateway to hell.

Next, visit Krafla, a vast caldera approximately 14 km in diameter. It is powered by geothermal energy, which provides electricity to the surrounding areas. Explore its boiling springs, bubbling mud pools, and steaming fissures.

From there, continue to the Námaskarð geothermal area, known for its colourful slopes, bubbling mud springs, and rising steam plumes. The striking palette of oranges, yellows, and reds gives the impression of walking on Mars.

Visit the Skútustaðir pseudocraters, formed by powerful steam explosions during ancient eruptions. These formations mimic real volcanoes, yet no lava has ever erupted.

This region has been the filming location for numerous movies and TV series, including the acclaimed Game of Thrones.

Are you a bird enthusiast? Lake Mývatn is a vital stop for migratory birds from Europe and North America. The peak months for birdwatching are May and June, though waterfowl can be spotted from spring through autumn.

After a full day of exploration, unwind in the soothing waters of the Mývatn Nature Baths. These geothermal pools, a quieter alternative to the Blue Lagoon, provide the perfect setting to relax your muscles and connect with nature.

Overnight in the Lake Mývatn area.