Drive Around Iceland in 9 days!
This 9-day South Coast Self-Drive adventure around Iceland offers a mix of stunning landscapes, glacier hikes, waterfall visits, and unique experiences like whale watching and geothermal baths. Explore the Golden Circle, Westman Islands, and iconic sites like Jökulsárlón Ice Lagoon and the Sky Lagoon.
Photo Credit: Icelandic Explorer
Around Iceland in 9 Days: Itinerary Inspiration
Day 1 - Discover Iceland's Wonders: Blue Lagoon to Skógafoss
Welcome to the Land of Fire and Ice. Upon arrival at Keflavik Airport, pick up your rental car and head to the Blue Lagoon. Once you have soaked your travel wearied bodies, start your drive East to your hotel, where you will stay the next 3 nights. You will pass by the infamous Seljalandsfoss Waterfall on the way and Skógafoss Waterfalls is about 10 minutes past your hotel.
Day 2 - Journey Through Þórsmörk: Iceland's Glacial Valley
Embark on an unforgettable adventure to Þórsmörk, the stunning Valley of Thor in Iceland's southern highlands. Nestled between three awe-inspiring glaciers—Eyjafjallajökull, Mýrdalsjökull, and Tindfjallajökull—this nature reserve offers a breathtaking landscape that will leave you spellbound.
Þórsmörk is a haven for hikers, photographers, and nature enthusiasts. Imagine exploring a diverse terrain of ice-capped peaks, jagged mountain ridges, and lush valleys adorned with moss and birch woodlands. Whether you're seeking tranquility or thrilling outdoor activities, Þórsmörk has it all.
Your journey begins with an exhilarating ride in a super jeep, a specially modified vehicle equipped with massive tires to conquer rivers and rugged terrains. Feel the excitement as you traverse this wild and beautiful landscape. And don't worry—you'll have plenty of opportunities to hop out and hike, immersing yourself in the spectacular scenery that surrounds you.
Book your trip to Þórsmörk today and experience the magic of Iceland's natural wonders. Perfect for your next Scandinavian adventure!
Day 3 - Explore Vestmannaeyjar: A Journey Through History and Nature
Catch the ferry to the Westman Islands today where you will spend the day. While there, hop on a minibus tour and explore the stunning nature of the island with unique history, friendly locals, vikings and see the biggest Puffin colony in the world. Also visit Herjólfstown, named after the first viking family that settled in Vestmannaeyjar around the year 900. You can either stay on the island tonight or head back to your hotel from the previous evening.
Photo Credit: Icelandic Explorer
Day 4 - Super Jeep to Glaciers: Explore Myrdalsjokull and Kötlujökull
After breakfast, head to Vik, where you will jump in a Super Jeep, strap on your crampons and step into the mighty glaciers and ice caves of South Iceland. Prepare for movie-like landscapes and jaw-dropping sights like nothing you've ever seen before. An easy hike out across the Myrdalsjokull glacier, then visit the amazing blue and black ice cave of Kötlujökull glacier on Mt. Katla. After the tour, on your own, check out Reynisfjara black sand beach and the awesome rock formations called “Reynisdrangar” that rise from the the ocean close to the shore. An option for later afternoon would be to attend the Lava Show, the only place in the world where you can safely experience hot molten lava in close proximity. The show recreates a volcano eruption, similar to what Eyjafjallajökull and Katla volcano are famous for. Finish the day with a 2 hour drive to your hotel for the next 2 nights, conveniently located between Skaftafell National Park and Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon.
Photo Credit: Icelandic Explorer
Day 5 - Sail and Stroll: Jökulsárlón Icebergs and Skaftafell Glaciers
A fun-filled day today! This morning, a zodiac boat ride, which will take you all the way up to the glacier wall, within a safe distance of course. Sail around huge icebergs in the breathtaking environment of the Jökulsárlón Ice Lagoon. After, explore Diamond Beach, enjoy some lunch, and then join a small group glacier walk in Skaftafell National Park - exploring the beautiful ice formations on the Falljökull outlet glacier, which is a part of Europe’s largest ice cap, Vatnajökull.
Day 6 - Golden Circle Highlights: Waterfalls, Hot Springs, and Historic Valleys
After breakfast, make your way to the infamous Golden Circle, where you can explore the wondrous sites at your own pace. It's about 3.5 hours to get to Selfoss, which is at the bottom of the Golden Circle. Along the route, visit Gullfoss waterfall, the Geysir hot spring, and Strokkur, a fountain geyser, famous for its frequent eruptions, every 5-7 minutes. Stay tonight along the Golden Circle, your hotel is on the doorstep of the geothermal area in the historic Haukadalur Valley.
Day 7 - From Tectonic Plates to Tapas: Þingvellir and Reykjavik Delights
Head to Þingvellir (Thingvellir) National Park, a historic site and national park in Iceland. It's known for the Alþing (Althing), the site of Iceland's parliament from the 10th to 18th centuries. Here, you can snorkel Silfra, a fissure created by the separation of the North American and Eurasian tectonic plates cutting through Iceland. Float over lava, swim between large volcanic canyons and discover the crystal clear waters. Another option would be to go snowmobiling or a buggy adventure.
After your tour, head to Reykjavik. This afternoon, a 3 hour walking food tour making no less than 6 stops for tapas, drinks, traditional Icelandic dishes and desserts. You be will delighted with stories of the Sagas, historical facts on Iceland and much more.
Day 8 - From Whales to Wellness: Iceland's Sea Life and Sky Lagoon Ritual
Whale watching today, where you will also be able to experience some of Iceland’s rich and thriving bird life, as well as visit the large variety of sea-life, including minke whales, humpback whales, harbour porpoises and white-beaked dolphins among other whale species. This afternoon, enjoy one last soak in geothermal waters tonight, at the Sky Lagoon, where the sea meets the sky. While soaking, enjoy their seven-step ritual, based on the traditions of Icelandic bathing culture and is rooted in wellness, wholeness and wonder.
Day 9 - Leisurely Farewell: A Morning of Tranquility Before Departure
Enjoy your morning before your private transfer picks you up to take you to the airport.
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