Send Query

Vik Iceland Self-Drive Tours

PACKAGES

24x7 Customer Support
Quality Assured
Stress Free Experience
Easy and Secure Booking

If you crave independence, flexibility, and the open road, Vik Iceland self-drive tours are your gateway to adventure. Nestled along Iceland’s dramatic South Coast, the village of Vik serves as a perfect base or scenic stopover on a self-guided journey through the land of fire and ice. With well-maintained roads, breathtaking views at every turn, and a wide array of natural attractions within easy reach, self-drive tours offer the freedom to explore Iceland’s wonders at your own pace. Whether you're chasing waterfalls, trekking across glaciers, or enjoying the serenity of black sand beaches, a self-drive tour puts you in control of your Icelandic experience.

Why Choose a Self-Drive Tour in Vik ?

Self-drive tours are ideal for travelers who want to explore on their own schedule without being tied to group itineraries. With GPS-assisted routes, digital guides, and pre-planned suggestions, modern self-drive packages offer the perfect mix of freedom and convenience. Starting in Vik or including it as a key stop on your Ring Road journey lets you dive deep into the scenic marvels of South Iceland. You'll have the ability to linger at your favorite spots, avoid crowds, and discover hidden gems that many bus tours pass by.

Highlights of Vik and Surrounding Attractions

Vik is surrounded by some of Iceland’s most iconic and accessible sights. A self-drive tour allows you to visit them at your own pace ..

Read More

  • Reynisfjara Black Sand Beach : Just minutes from Vik, this beach is world-famous for its basalt columns, powerful Atlantic waves, and the Reynisdrangar sea stacks.
  • Dyrhólaey Peninsula: Offering panoramic views of the coastline and a rock arch jutting into the sea. In summer, it’s a great spot for puffin watching.
  • Skogafoss waterfall : A massive and thunderous waterfall just a 30-minute drive from Vik. Climb the stairs to the top for breathtaking views.
  • Kvernufoss Waterfall: A lesser-known gem near Skógafoss that requires a short, scenic hike—perfect for those looking to escape the crowds.
  • Sólheimajökull Glacier: Accessible glacier tongue with a marked trail. You can view the glacier from a safe distance or book a guided glacier hike separately.
  • Hjörleifshöfði and Yoda Cave: A quiet, surreal headland east of Vik with black dunes and a cave shaped like Yoda’s face. Ideal for photography lovers.

Sample Vik Self-Drive Tour Itinerary (From Reykjavik)

Day 1 – Reykjavik to Vik (190 km / ~3 hours):

  • Stop at Seljalandsfoss waterfall (walk behind it)
  • Visit Skógafoss and optionally hike the Fimmvörðuháls trail
  • Explore Sólheimajökull Glacier viewpoint
  • Arrive in Vik and check in to a local guesthouse or hotel

Day 2 – Exploring Vik Area:

  • Morning at Reynisfjara Beach and Hálsanefshellir Cave
  • Drive to Dyrhólaey for coastal views and puffin spotting
  • Afternoon visit to Hjörleifshöfði and Yoda Cave
  • Sunset from the hilltop Vik Church viewpoint

Optional Day 3 – Vik to Skaftafell and Jökulsárlón:

  • Explore Eldhraun lava fields
  • Visit Fjaðrárgljúfur Canyon (seasonal access)
  • See Vatnajökull National Park, Svartifoss, and Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon
  • Return to Vik or continue your Ring Road journey east

Benefits of a Self-Drive Tour

  • Freedom: Spend as much or as little time as you like at each stop.
  • Flexibility: Adjust your plans based on weather, mood, or local discoveries.
  • Privacy: Enjoy the landscape without crowds or time pressure.
  • Customization: Add optional excursions like horseback riding, glacier hiking, or ice cave visits.

What’s Typically Included in Self-Drive Packages?

Self-drive tour packages are designed to simplify logistics while offering freedom. They usually include:

  • Rental car with unlimited mileage and insurance options
  • Pre-booked accommodations in Vik and nearby areas
  • GPS or mobile app with detailed itinerary and local tips
  • 24/7 roadside assistance
  • Optional add-ons like airport transfers, fuel vouchers, or guided activities

Driving Tips for Iceland

  • Always check road conditions and weather before driving, especially in winter.
  • F-roads (mountain roads) require a 4x4 vehicle and are usually open only in summer.
  • Observe speed limits and beware of sudden animal crossings (especially sheep).
  • Do not stop on the road to take photos—use designated pullouts.
  • Never drive off-road. It’s illegal and damages fragile landscapes.

Best Time for a Self-Drive Tour

Summer (June–August): Ideal for first-time visitors. Roads are clear, daylight lasts 20+ hours, and all areas are accessible.

Autumn (September–October): Beautiful fall colors and fewer crowds. Roads remain in good condition, and accommodations are easier to book.

Winter (November–March): A magical time with snowy landscapes and Northern Lights, but requires careful planning and winter driving skills. A 4x4 is essential.

Spring (April–May): Melting snow reveals waterfalls in full force, and it's a peaceful time to explore before the high season begins.

Packing Essentials for a Self-Drive Tour

  • Warm, layered clothing and waterproof outerwear
  • Hiking boots or sturdy shoes
  • Offline maps or GPS device
  • Portable charger or power bank
  • Snacks, water, and emergency food
  • Camera and tripod for landscape shots
  • Sunglasses and sunscreen

Accommodations in Vik for Self-Drivers

Vik offers a range of lodging options including hotels, guesthouses, hostels, and cozy cabins. Many are located within walking distance of the beach, local restaurants, and gas stations. Booking in advance is recommended during summer and winter holidays.

Read Less

 

Popular Package in Iceland

FAQs

Is it safe to drive in Iceland year-round?

Yes, but conditions vary by season. Summer is easiest. Winter driving requires a 4x4, experience with icy roads, and frequent weather checks. Always plan ahead and drive carefully.

Do I need a 4x4 vehicle for a Vik self-drive tour?

A 4x4 is recommended for winter or if you plan to explore F-roads. For most summer trips along Route 1 and nearby sights, a standard car is sufficient.

Can I book a self-drive tour starting in Vik?

Yes, some tour companies offer self-drive packages that start in Vik, including car rental and lodging. Most begin in Reykjavik but allow flexible pickup and drop-off.

Are attractions around Vik well-marked for self-drivers?

Yes, most major sites like Reynisfjara, Skógafoss, and Dyrhólaey are well-signposted and easy to access. Be cautious near beaches and always respect safety signs.

Can I combine a self-drive tour with guided activities?

Absolutely. Many travelers drive themselves to glacier hikes, ice cave tours, or horseback rides, then join short guided activities at the destination for added safety and expertise.

Conclusion

Vik Iceland self-drive tours are the ultimate way to experience the freedom of Iceland’s epic South Coast. With your own vehicle, you can explore dramatic coastlines, cascading waterfalls, hidden caves, and volcanic glaciers—all on your schedule. Whether you follow a suggested itinerary or carve your own path, the flexibility, privacy, and adventure of a self-drive tour offer a deeper connection to Iceland’s stunning natural landscapes. For independent travelers, road trippers, and explorers at heart, there’s no better way to see Vik and beyond.

ICELAND SPECIAL OFFERS

SAVE UP TO 10% ON SELECTED TRAVELS EXPERIENCE IN 2025.

OUR ICELAND TOUR REVIEWS

See what makes our Iceland trips special with testimonies from our lovely customers.

John & Marian
Australia

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.

John Legend
United States

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.

Jeff Daniels
United States

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!".

Mel Gibson
Ireland

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!.