This flexible self-drive journey takes you to some of the best highlights of south and west Iceland. As one of our expertly crafted 10-day itineraries, it allows you to explore two regions of Iceland without having to switch accommodation each night, offering less time in the car and more time discovering what Iceland has to offer.
Are you looking to join like-minded travellers on a similar guided small group version of this tour?
Just a few of the majestic sights you’ll take in during your trip.
A day-by-day plan to guide your Nordic adventure.
On arrival to Keflavik Airport, you will be greeted by a driver who will take you to your accommodation in Reykjavík. After settling in, the rest of the day is free for you to explore the vibrant city centre with its abundance of museums, restaurants and bars to suit all tastes. If you're interested in checking out Icelandic design or experiencing the city's thriving coffee culture, head to the main street, Laugavegur, and enjoy its various shops and cosy cafes.
Spend the night in central Reykjavik.
Begin your journey today by driving through the bountiful Borgarfjörður area. Sights along the way include the twin waterfalls Hraunfossar and Barnafoss along with the Deildartunguhver hot spring, and Háafell Goat Farm. You also have the choice of joining several optional activities such as relaxing at the Krauma geothermal baths, visiting the lava tunnel Víðgelmir, venturing inside a glacier or experiencing a thrilling snowmobile tour on top of a glacier. For those interested in the Viking history of Iceland, a stop at the Icelandic Settlement Center in Borgarnes is highly recommended.
Spend the night in the Borgarfjörður area.
Driving distance approx. 185 km / 115 mi.
Today you will drive to the geographically diverse Snæfellsnes peninsula, which some call "Iceland in miniature" for its various landscapes. Here, you can see the mighty Snæfellsjökull glacier, believed by many to be one of Earth’s seven major energy centres. It was also used as the backdrop to Jules Verne’s famous novel “Journey to the Centre of the Earth.”
Your drive along the scenic coast offers sights like the Dritvík Cove, the Lóndrangar cliffs, the Arnarstapi cliffs, the hamlet of Hellnar and other small fishing villages. For a fun photo opportunity and to experience a blast from the past, you can also visit Djúpalónssandur, a pebble-filled beach with four famous “lifting stones” that were used in old days to test men‘s strength for jobs on fishing boats. Do you have what it takes to lift the stones?
Spend the night in the Borgarfjörður area.
Driving distance approx. 330 km / 205 mi.
Today's journey takes you up close to some of Iceland’s most popular attractions on the classic “Golden Circle” route. Start with a visit to the fascinating Þingvellir National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Here, you can walk on a path in the rift valley between the North American and Eurasion tectonic plates. Next on the route is the Haukadalur geothermal area, where you can see Geysir—the original “geyser”—and its more active neighbour, Strokkur, which spouts water every few minutes.
End the circle with a visit to the two-tiered Gullfoss waterfall, one of Iceland’s most memorable sights.
Spend the night in the Selfoss area.
Driving distance approx. 230 km / 143 mi.
The next couple of days will be spent along the south coast, where there are so many highlights and activities to explore. Our staff recommends optional activities like horseriding, snorkeling in the Silfra ravine in Þingvellir, venturing inside a volcano, or visiting one of the geothermal spas in the area such as the Secret Lagoon or Fontana. For hiking enthusiasts, we recommend the well-maintained trail on the Hengill mountain above Hveragerði, a popular path among bubbling mud pots ending up at a warm river where you can bathe with fellow travellers in natural surroundings.
Spend the night in the Selfoss area.
Driving distance Variating
Today is ideal to explore more of the southwest region of Iceland. Travel throughout the Þjórsárdalur valley, where we recommend visiting the Viking replica farm of Stöng, a historically accurate reconstruction of the three buildings, including a longhouse. The farm is believed to have been buried under volcanic ash in 1104 following the eruption of the nearby volcano Hekla. For those up for some hiking, the walk up to Háifoss, the third highest waterfall in Iceland, is worth the trip!
Furthermore, on good summer days there is nothing quite like visiting the Westman Islands, just off the coast of the south. The ferry departs from Landeyjarhöfn harbour several times a day (prebooking is recommended), and we recommend bringing your rental car so you can explore the island at your own pace. Or, you can book a guided tour as there are long walking distances between the highlights of the island. Sights include Cape Stórhöfði, the Eldheimar museum, a boat tour around the island, puffin watching and hiking on the volcano above the town with breathtaking views over the small islands.
Spend the night in the Selfoss area.
Start with a visit to the fairytale-like Seljalandsfoss waterfall, where you can enjoy the unique experience of venturing behind the misty cascade. Just a short drive brings you to yet another gorgeous waterfall, the 60-meter tall Skógafoss which is perfect to photograph and roam the surroundings. Your next stop is at the stunning black volcanic sand beach south of Vík, where you can see the jagged basalt rock formations of Reynisdrangar and Dyrhólaey. Continue along the South Coast to Kirkjubæjarklaustur.
Spend the night in the Kirkjubæjarklaustur area.
Please note that there is a high demand for summer 2023. For that reason, if we can't book 2 nights in the Kirkjubæjarklaustur area, you will be relocated to the Vík area for 1 night.
Driving distance approx. 200 km / 124 miles
Explore Skaftafell, part of Vatnajökull National Park and a place of great beauty with many interesting hiking trails, including a short walk to the beautiful Svartifoss waterfall. In this area you can go on a guided glacier walk or try your hand at ice-climbing with an optional guided tour. Then head to the spectacular Jökulsárlón glacier lagoon and the Fjallsárlón ice lagoon where you can take a boat ride among the floating icebergs and view chunks of ice scattered on the black sand beach by Jökulsárlón, also known as the diamond beach. Head back to your accommodation for the night.
Spend the night in the Kirkjubæjarklaustur area.
Please note that there is a high demand for summer 2023. For that reason, if we can't book 2 nights in the Kirkjubæjarklaustur area, you will be relocated to the Vík area for 1 night.
Driving distance approx. 240 km / 149 miles
Drive along the south coast to the Reykjanes peninsula, making worthwhile stops along the way including the Fjaðrarárgljúfur canyon and the Dverghamrar "elf cliffs". Once you have traversed the road under Eyjafjallajökull and Mýrdalsjökull you will continue to the volcanic wonderland of Reykjanes Peninsula.
We recommend visiting the bubbling mud pots at Seltún and Lake Kleifarvatn before reaching the world famous Blue Lagoon geothermal Spa (entrance not included)*. The Blue Lagoon´s water is rich in silica and blue-green algae, giving the lagoon its reputed healing powers and characteristic milky blue colour. In-water massages are available (must be booked in advance) but you can also unwind in the saunas and steam baths or get a soothing massage under the mini waterfall. Head to the capital where you will be dorpping the rental car in the late afternoon before relaxing at your accommodation for your last day in Iceland.
Spend the night in Reykjavik.
Driving distance approx. 370 / 230 mi.
*Reservations are required well in advance at the Blue Lagoon for both entrance and in-water treatments.
As your amazing holiday comes to an end, transportation to Keflavík Airport is provided via shuttle bus in time for your departure flight.
We recommend adding your extra activities to the tour now for the best booking experience and to secure your spot, as activities are likely to sell out.
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Here’s a map of your travel route, to help put things in perspective.
Don’t worry, we’ve got this covered.
We recommend that you read carefully through the following information before booking this summer self-drive tour in Iceland. We’ve answered the most frequently asked questions here so you know what to expect. You’ll also find more practical advice and attraction recommendations in our online Iceland Travel Guide.
On a self-drive tour, Nordic Visitor supplies you with a quality rental car and a detailed personal itinerary. You act as your own tour guide and driver, and you get to pick the road trip music!
All your services will be pre-booked by your personal travel consultant at Nordic Visitor. This includes your rental car and accommodation in Iceland, along with airport transfers and planned activities, as specified in the itinerary.
And rest assured that we’re with you every step of the way. Upon your arrival, you’ll receive personalised information, including an itinerary, map, leaflets about driving in Iceland, and our very own Iceland Travel Guide. You’ll also have in-car Wi-Fi included in your car rental, meaning you’ll be able to stay connected and check things on the go.
Plus, you’ll have access to our 24/7 helpline during your trip should you need to contact us.
Yes, when you book your Iceland tour with Nordic Visitor, you always get airport transfers to and from Keflavík Airport included. This will be a private, shared or bus transfer, depending on your itinerary. Please check the details of your tour to confirm.
If you add extra nights to your stay before or after the scheduled trip, we’ll rearrange your transfers to fit your new itinerary.
Don’t hesitate to get in touch with your travel consultant if you have any specific requests about optional activities or services.
During your self-drive tour, you’ll stay in accommodation hand-picked by our local Iceland travel experts. We’ve partnered with local businesses and selected hotels and guesthouses based on excellent ratings, comfort and our personal experience.
On our self-drive packages, you can choose from single, double and triple rooms. Please note that in Iceland room types are based on European standard sizes, which means they are smaller than in North America.
For example, a double bed often consists of 2 single beds pushed together. Twin rooms are 2 separate single beds. Triple rooms include a double bed along with an extra bed, rollaway or sofa bed. And single rooms are often smaller than the standard double.
If you have anything specific in mind, please contact us to discuss customising your accommodation options.
By booking with Nordic Visitor, you’ll have peace of mind knowing that there’s always someone there for you throughout your trip.
For support and advice during the day, you can call our office. And if anything unexpected happens outside working hours, you can reach us on our 24/7 helpline.
During your tour, there will always be a Reykjavík-based travel expert on call to handle any unforeseen situations, such as unusual weather or events.
If you’re arriving from Canada, the United States, the United Kingdom, Australia or New Zealand, you won’t need a visa to visit Iceland.
Visiting from another country? You can find the complete list of countries whose nationals require a visa to enter Iceland on the website of Iceland’s Directorate of Immigration. If you do require a visa, they maintain a list of local embassies that can assist you with the process.
Your passport must also be valid for at least 3 months from your departure from Iceland. It’s good to check your passport expiry date early in case you need to renew it.
Read more about visas, airports and airlines in the getting to Iceland section of our travel guide.
Travelling with your kids? No problem! You'll be able to enter your children's ages during the booking process. This lets us know whether to arrange either a baby cot or roll-away bed for your trip.
If you'd like us to arrange for a car seat to be provided for your trip, please let us know ahead of time. It's also possible to book this directly with the car rental agency. This will incur a small, extra cost.
Only you can pick the best time to visit Iceland for your trip. It’ll depend on how much time you have to explore, what you want to see in Iceland and any events you might like to attend.
In summer, June to August, you’ll have milder temperatures and longer daylight hours, compared to the winter. This is ideal for outdoor excursions and sightseeing.
If you’d like to experience the top attractions with fewer visitors around then you could book your summer trip in May or September. These shoulder season months have more tour and attraction availability.
The winter months are also popular, but generally quieter, apart from the Christmas holiday season. This is the ideal time to try to spot the northern lights.
Find out what annual Icelandic events and festivals are on in our travel guide. Or read more about the best time to visit Iceland on our blog.
Driving in Iceland during the summer months might be slightly different than what you’re used to. For this reason, you’ll want to make yourself aware of local driving laws and potential road hazards, such as:
And finally, with all the beautiful scenery, you’ll want to take it slow and enjoy the drive!
For more information, we strongly recommend taking a few minutes to read through our guide to driving in Iceland. Additionally, when you arrive on your tour, you’ll receive a brochure telling you more about driving in Iceland.
Because of its northerly location close to the Arctic Circle, Iceland enjoys long days throughout the summer.
Around the summer solstice, from early June until mid-July, you’ll experience almost 24 hours of daylight. This phenomenon, known as the midnight sun, occurs within the Arctic Circle and is when the sun doesn’t fully set below the horizon.
These long daylight hours give you plenty of time to drive around and explore. That said, you may want to pack a sleeping mask if you are a light sleeper or tend to wake up at dawn.
Find out what the daylight hours will be during the month of your visit in this guide to time and daylight in Iceland.
Summer in Iceland is mild and boasts the best weather and longest days of the year. You can expect temperatures of around 10–15°C (50–59°F), with potential lows of 5°C (41°F) and highs of 25°C (77°F).
It’s good to know that weather conditions are changeable in Iceland, so you should come ready for sun, rain and wind. For more information on the local climate, read the page Iceland weather conditions.
Please note that sightseeing is dependent on weather and road conditions. This means that your itinerary might need to be altered if these conditions are not favourable during your visit.
Even in summertime Iceland’s climate can feel cool. As you’ll probably spend a lot of time outdoors, you should be ready for a variety of weather conditions.
Here is a recommended summer packing list for your trip to Iceland:
For more information, check out this Iceland packing guide.
There are limited laundry facilities along the Ring Road and in Iceland’s countryside. Some hotels do offer dry cleaning or laundry services for an additional cost.
On your Iceland road trip, you should budget for petrol costs of around 300-400 ISK per litre.
As for meals, your breakfast is included at all your accommodation in Iceland. For the rest of your meals, your spending money will depend on the standard of restaurants you decide to go to.
Budget between 2,000–3,000 ISK for lunch per person, each day. Dinners at casual restaurants might cost between 3,000–6,000 ISK. Meanwhile at upscale restaurants, you can expect to pay 7,000 ISK or more. This does not include the cost of alcoholic beverages.
Yes, you can customise this tour online. During the booking process, you can add extra nights to your itinerary as well as optional day trips, excursions and upgrades.
If you have something specific in mind, get in touch with your travel consultant and they’ll create your dream trip.
It’s best to book as soon as you can to secure your preferred travel dates. Once you have picked your tour, check the availability calendar to see which months are open for booking. Then, select the date you want and complete your booking.
Nordic Visitor offers 10–20% deposits so you can reserve your trip as early as it’s convenient for you. The remaining balance is due 30 days before you travel.
Many tours are also open for the following year if you like to plan well ahead. And if you have any questions or need advice, you can always contact us.
After booking your tour package online, you will be contacted within 2 business days by your own dedicated travel consultant. They will be your point of contact for all your travel needs before, during and even after your trip.
At that time, they’ll confirm the availability of your tour. Then the booking process starts, which may take a few weeks. Once this is done, your travel consultant will provide you with all the details of your trip. You will also receive more information about what to expect during your trip.
No need! Nordic Visitor is already working on offsetting the estimated carbon footprint of your package. We’ve partnered with an environmental fund in Iceland to carbon offset all our tours.
Carbon offsetting your international flights is not included, but we highly recommend you look into possibilities with your airline or directly through a local environment fund.
You can get in touch with our Iceland travel experts ahead of your trip if you have any questions. The live chat option is useful for getting a quick reply as someone answers live every day during office opening hours.
Once you’ve booked, we’ll provide you with a travel guide packed full of local tips and top attractions for your visit. You can also check out our online Iceland Travel Guide where we’ve compiled useful information about topics, including:
After you have booked your tour, it will only take a few days to confirm its availability. But it may take a few weeks to create your itinerary and book everything. Once your trip details are finalised, we’ll email you copies of your travel documents.
When you arrive in Iceland, you’ll receive a welcome bag with hard copies of your itinerary, attraction and tour vouchers, the Nordic Visitor Iceland Travel Guide and more.
So when do you check in? And what can you expect upon landing in Keflavík?
After picking up your luggage, you will be greeted by a driver holding a sign with your name in the arrivals hall. The driver will hand over your welcome package with hard copies of your travel documents. You’ll then be driven to your hotel in Reykjavík.
Check-in times vary between hotels and guesthouses, but it normally starts between 2 PM and 4 PM.
You are welcome to request an early check-in for an additional fee. Although this isn’t always available, you’ll be able to store your luggage at the hotel so you can start exploring before check-in. Please contact your travel consultant well in advance of your arrival if you’d like an early check-in.
When you depart may depend on the time of your return flight. Check out early if you’re heading to the airport for a morning flight. On the other hand, if you’re flying home later in the day, you might like to enjoy a leisurely day or visit one more attraction.
You will need to check out from your room, but will be able to store your luggage at the hotel reception. Simply return later to collect your bags before catching your transfer to the airport.
All bookings are billed in Icelandic Króna (ISK), the official currency of Iceland.
Prices displayed in other currencies are indicative only and based on the daily exchange rate as issued by the Central Bank of Iceland. This means conversions from ISK to other currencies will fluctuate from day to day.
Just wait until you see this with your own eyes.
We don’t like to brag, so we’ll let our happy customers do it for us.
We were happy with Zachary in his response to our queries on Iceland. He was always willing to assist in ensuring that our visit was memorable. Changes that we made to our initial booking were made by Nordic Visitor without any issues.
Everything went very smoothly. The prior planning was very helpful. Not only did we have accommodation booked, but as we had not been to Iceland before, the book with information and suggestions of places to visit was very useful. It was also a great comfort to know that we could call for assistance at any time. We only contacted Zach, our adviser, once regarding collecting the hire car. He dealt with the situation very quickly and efficiently. We had a wonderful time in Iceland, and would highly recommend Nordic Visitor.
Nordic Visitor has excellent service and travel consultants. We did a self-drive that our consultant Vioja hand-tailored to our particular interests. The trip was amazing and everything was perfect. Our plane was late and they were able to adjust our Blue Lagoon Retreat reservations. I highly recommend them. We had an amazing experience.
It was so helpful to have our hotels and car rental taken care of by Nordic Visitor. While in Iceland it was so reassuring to know they were available for any questions or problems. I would definitely consider using then again.
I have the highest of praise and appreciation for Nordic Visitor. We booked a 9-day trip in 2023, and then our passports were lost in the mail during the renewal process. It was devastating! But Rakel graciously understood and cancelled our trip without penalty. In 2024, Perla helped re-book our entire itinerary and our dreams came true! We had the most magical 9 days in Iceland, making memories with Nature. This is the second trip we have booked with Nordic Visitor; our trip to Scotland in 2021 was also a delight. Thank you Perla and Rakel for all you did to plan our excellent vacations.
Sleep soundly, in the accommodation type of your choice, and wake up ready to enjoy another day of exploration.
You can expect rooms in good quality guesthouses, farmhouses, or hostels. Most of the properties are run by small, family-run busi..
ViewIn this category, you’ll stay in standard rooms in good quality 3-star hotels. Or, you'll spend the night in similar rooms in rura..
ViewWith Superior accommodation, you’ll enjoy standard rooms in 4-star hotels or boutique guesthouses. You might also stay in superior..
ViewEnjoy the journey, in the rental car of your choice.
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Whether you have a single question or a special request, we're here for you.
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