Discover the freedom of exploring Iceland on your terms with our carefully curated self-drive tours. From the iconic Golden Circle to the remote Westfjords, self-drive tours in Iceland provide the ultimate adventure for those who love the open road and breathtaking landscapes. Whether you’re visiting during the midnight sun of summer or the magical Northern Lights of winter, Iceland’s stunning scenery and well-maintained roads make it the ideal destination for a self-drive vacation.
Self-drive tours are perfect for independent travelers seeking flexibility and the freedom to create their own adventure. Here are some key benefits:
The Golden Circle is Iceland’s most popular driving route, covering three iconic attractions:
This route is perfect for a day trip from Reykjavík and offers plenty of opportunities for scenic stops.
For the ultimate Icelandic road trip, the Ring Road encircles the entire country, covering approximately 1,332 kilometers (828 miles). Highlights include:
The Ring Road is ideal for a 7-10 day trip, allowing you to experience a little bit of everything Iceland has to offer.
Known as “Iceland in Miniature,” the Snæfellsnes Peninsula offers diverse landscapes in a compact area. Highlights include:
This route can be completed in 1-2 days, making it an excellent short trip from Reykjavik.
For those seeking off-the-beaten-path adventures, the Westfjords offer dramatic landscapes and solitude. Key stops include:
The Westfjords are best suited for travelers with extra time, as the remote region requires several days to explore fully.
Your choice of vehicle depends on your itinerary and the season. A standard car is sufficient for summer trips along the Ring Road, but a 4x4 is essential for exploring highland roads (F-roads) or traveling during winter.
Iceland’s roads are generally well-maintained, but weather conditions can change rapidly. Stay informed by checking the Icelandic Road and Coastal Administration’s website for updates.
Ensure you have the following items for a safe and enjoyable trip:
While Iceland offers various accommodation options, they can fill up quickly, especially during peak season. Booking in advance ensures you have a comfortable place to stay each night.
Summer is the most popular time for self-drive tours, with extended daylight hours and mild weather. It’s the best season for accessing highland roads and enjoying outdoor activities like hiking and whale watching.
Winter offers a unique experience with snow-covered landscapes and the chance to see the Northern Lights. However, driving conditions can be challenging, so extra caution and preparation are necessary.
These shoulder seasons provide fewer crowds, lower prices, and stunning natural colors, making them an excellent choice for a quieter trip.
Pick up your rental car and explore Reykjavik’s vibrant city center, including Hallgrímskirkja Church and the Harpa Concert Hall.
Drive the Golden Circle, visiting Thingvellir, Geysir, and Gullfoss. End the day with a relaxing soak in the Secret Lagoon.
Explore Seljalandsfoss and Skogafoss waterfalls, Reynisfjara beach, and the town of Vik.
Visit the stunning glacier lagoon and nearby Diamond Beach. Optional activities include a glacier hike or ice cave tour.
Drive back to Reykjavik, stopping at attractions like Seljavallalaug Pool or Kerid Crater along the way.
It depends on your travel plans and the season. For summer trips along the Ring Road or popular routes like the Golden Circle, a standard car is sufficient. However, if you plan to explore highland roads (F-roads) or travel during winter, a 4x4 vehicle is essential for safety and access to remote areas.
Driving in Iceland during winter can be safe if you take proper precautions. Roads may be icy or snowy, and weather conditions can change quickly. Ensure your vehicle has winter tires, check road conditions regularly, and drive cautiously. If you’re unsure, consider visiting during summer for easier driving conditions.
Yes, GPS devices and apps like Google Maps work well in most parts of Iceland. However, it’s a good idea to have a physical map as a backup, especially when traveling to remote areas where mobile signals may be weak.
No, wild camping is not allowed in Iceland unless you have permission from the landowner. There are designated campsites across the country that provide facilities for campers. Make sure to plan your overnight stops in advance.
Pack warm, waterproof clothing, sturdy hiking boots, a first-aid kit, snacks, water, and a fully charged phone with emergency numbers. In winter, bring additional items like a flashlight, ice scraper, and extra blankets. Don’t forget travel insurance for added peace of mind.
Ready to embark on the adventure of a lifetime? Our self-drive tour packages include everything you need, from rental vehicles and accommodations to detailed itineraries and 24/7 support. Whether you’re planning a romantic getaway, a family vacation, or a solo expedition, we’ll help you create the perfect Icelandic road trip. Contact us today to start planning your self-drive tour in Iceland!
See what makes our Iceland trips special with testimonies from our lovely customers.
A truly amazing experience! With Iceland Packages, I reserved an Iceland trip package for my honeymoon, and it well above all my expectations. Everything about the experience was beautiful, from the breath-taking scenery to the flawless setups. Strongly advise anyone organizing a romantic gateway to use their services.
A Memorable Iceland Journey! I had the most amazing holiday ever with my family. All the must-see locations and activities were included in the thoughtfully designed tour package. The local guides were immensely informative, and the accommodations were excellent. I'm eager to make another reservation with them.
A Fantastic Trip to Iceland! I am so grateful to Iceland Packages for planning the ideal trip for me. Everything was handled perfectly from the time I landed until I left. I was able to take my time discovering Iceland's hidden treasures because I could alter my schedule to suit my needs. Absolutely once in a lifetime!".
Easy Reservations and Top-Notch Support! It was really easy to book my flights and vacation package to Iceland. Their customer service team was really helpful throughout the entire process. The trip itself was excellent; every aspect had been carefully thought out. Strongly advised for hassle-free trip preparation!.
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