overland iceland trip

Epic Iceland Road Trip: An Overland Bucket List Destination

Share this:.

• Click to share on Facebook (Opens in new window)
• Click to email a link to a friend (Opens in new window)

Setting out on a 3-month adventure through Iceland uncovers a wonderland almost too good to be true. Seeing this country’s magnificent geological features should be at the top of every traveler’s bucket list.

I admit we were as far from informed about Iceland’s diverse wonders as possible.  Ordinarily, we’d be excited about knowing what to see after weighing up time and resources available.

As voyagers with no more knowledge than knowing that Iceland is more than just Reyjavik, we headed upcountry. We accepted that taking in the totality of its volcanic plateau of ice fields, rhyolite mountains, and a shoreline serrated by glacier-carved fjords would span lifetimes.

We had 10 weeks from October through December 2019 to unearth the nature of this island jewel, a tad smaller than Kentucky, glistening ice blue between the North Atlantic Ocean and the Greenland Sea, west of Norway.

Epic Iceland Road Trip: Tread Carefully on This Dreamland

One of Iceland’s well-regarded maxims is “Nature first, safety second,” in treating the sensitive environment with the utmost respect. Enveloping many lava formations, woolly fringe moss delicately forms a continuous layer. Not for tramping over — and congruous with coral — it takes 200 years for the moss to grow. One step can scar the landscape for decades.

Every undulating gravel road beckoned our Toyota Hilux , we affectionately call White Rhino. Winding around hairpin bends over all-but-impassable mountain passes, we ventured nowhere on a whim without checking the  weather  and  road conditions first. Thanks to our onboard Motorhome Wi-Fi router and antenna, we tapped into these resources en route.

Common 100 mph gales blasted temperatures down to 10 degrees. Life in the deep freeze never ceased to amuse when our dish-drying towels routinely became stiff as a board. Hah! Storing those in our CFX fridge stopped them from freezing over.

Such extreme conditions caught us out. Our truck’s lithium battery — usually unbeatable — stopped working until it slowly returned to life from the cab’s heater. Fortunately, we fell back on a Dometic Portable Leisure Battery in the overlanding arsenal. Lesson learned.

South Iceland: You Don’t Look a Day Over Magnificent!

A heavily visited part of the country — cue imposing waterfalls and glaciers at your feet — South Iceland was where the distinctions of Icelandic landscapes were the clearest. Rift valleys surrounded by cliffs, gorges, and green slopes met jet-black deserts. Volcanoes silhouetted against the skyline.

Dotted along the coast, icy glaciers were streaked with black ash from fiery volcanic eruptions. Jagged cliffs dropped dramatically to the plains below.

Welcome to the Golden Circle. Here, it can become overcrowded, even during our arrival in the shoulder season. No matter, the south was an easy sell to get going.

Reynisfjara

An iconic black beach fringed with ancient basalt columns and photogenic sea stacks always looks tempting to the unassuming sightseer. But don’t be fooled: a raging power underpinned this place at the island’s southernmost tip.

Outside the quaint fishing village of Vik at Reynisfjara, waves smacked against the stony bulkheads along the shore. Foamy water sloshed onto the beach.

The cold plucked my body’s last vestiges of heat and I shivered at the thought of getting dragged into the undertow.

Jokulsarlon & Fjallassarlon Glacial Lagoons

Two-and-a-half hours northeast of Reynisfjara are Jokulsarlon and Fjallassarlon — both within a stone’s throw of Iceland’s 820-mile-long Ring Road.

Glacial lagoons see the blinding brilliance of icebergs floating lazily by as they drift out to sea. They created ice sculptures that washed up glimmering on the shoreline at Diamond Beach.

Seals swam in the blue lagoon or basked on the bergs. They barely batted an eyelid at the ferocious Arctic wind, often chopping the sea’s surface.

Vatnajokull National Park

North of Jokulsarlon, Vatnajokull is an ice-capped national park embracing 14% of Iceland and over 125 miles of the Ring Road. Few places on the planet possess such impressive natural phenomena.

This area is defined by massive glaciers, glittering rivers, steaming geothermal areas, booming waterfalls, black sand beaches, and luminous blue ice caves. Within the park boundaries, the battle between fire and ice rages.

South Iceland is where we found the actual “ice” of Iceland, including Vatnajokull glacier, a giant white unmissable blob on the map. The glacier seems so close to the locals that they often refer to the ice as part of their backyard.

There was nothing like seeing the glacier descend into black sands and hot streams erupt from frozen ice banks. What a place to live!

East Iceland: OD’ing on Iceland’s Rough Roads

Home to splendid pockets of remote fishing villages and natural harbors nestled in an isolated landscape cleft with innumerable fjords, the East felt off the globetrotter’s radar. Like all of Iceland, it was untouched. Geologically, the Eastfjords are one of the oldest regions of the island and the furthest from Reykjavik.

The landscape on the Southeastern side was remarkable. Think of mountains jutting from the earth close to the sea.

Sweeping headlands such as Stokksnes lure not just wilderness seekers to this pristine wonder but also the “Game of Thrones” cast and crew. Located between Papafjordur and Skardsfjordur fjords near Hofn and Hornafjordur, it’s one of the few plutonic gabbro formations on the island, from 8 to 11 million years ago.

Northern Lights

An impactful sight at Skokksnes is Vestrahorn, a 1,489-foot-high magnet. No wonder it’s hailed by photographers that amass from all corners. Gushing over the splendor of the rock, we stayed for days on end.

By day, we paid it forward frequently winch-rescuing carloads of tourists in their 2WD rental vehicles, who’d gotten royally stuck in the black sand. By night, we tingled with terrific impatience to witness the northern lights inspired by the stills of the locale we’d drooled over for goodness knows how long.

And then the celestial magic unfolded. The aurora borealis displayed a solar-powered jig of shimmering green curtains flashing across the sky. Bearing witness to the coronal mass ejection in this dark spot at least 20 times over 10 weeks meant enduring inhuman temperatures.

Keeping all but my eyes covered and my face glued to the sky, some auroras glowed the softest emerald. Others rippled in a fleeting moment. Later, the miracle burst into the phenomenon that it was, discharging through the night.

West Iceland: West Is Best

Ping-ponging to the island’s opposite side, I heard west is best for some. A hidden pearl of nature by today’s standards, West Iceland stretches from the Botnsa River in the lush serenity of Hvalfjordur to the Gilsfordur fjord. Watersheds and glaciers border it.

From the frigid expanse of Langjokull glacier to the deepest depths of the lava caves, it’s a region rich in just about every known and hidden gem. What drew us in were the shape-shifting, stark lava formations of the Snaefellsnes Peninsula, where the border between mountain and shore narrows. Iceland is distilled into a miniature of itself.

You don’t fritter away sunlit days in Iceland. The weather here is as cutting as it is capricious. The cornflower blue sky we encountered one day at Hvitsedur along the eastern shore of the Vatnsnes Peninsula was filled with fulmars.

The imposing Hvitsedur rock radiated energy that seemed to exude out of all 50 feet of it. With two holes at its base, it resembled a dragon taking a drink. Insatiable, I seized every moment I could get on the thing — a ravenous response to an obscene reckoning that was this rock.

On Snaefellsnes Peninsula’s northern shore, 90 miles northwest of Hvitsedur but not far from Frundarfjordur, we found Kirkjufell. Uncannily, the 1,519-foot prominence had all the hallmarks of the Sorting Hat in Harry Potter . Broad and flat-topped from one angle, it jutted up from the earth at another.

Entirely outside the Ring Road’s loop, 4 hours north of the Snaefellsnes Peninsula, the Westfjords gave us some of the prettiest landscapes on the island. Peaceful and remote, it’s Iceland’s largest peninsula.

Gloriously, we encountered untold coastlines, cliffs buzzing with birdlife, and quaint little communities at the foothills. The roads were carved into an infinite series of table-topped mountains, descending pointedly to small settlements amid fjords sawtoothing the coastline. These were often accompanied by hot pots and cozy spots to make camp for the night.

It was an extraordinary, free-to-overnight (as can be found throughout the island), sparsely populated region. Precisely our kind of place.

North Iceland: A Must-Experience Majesty

Wending our way eastward, a special atmosphere befell North Iceland. Deep in the cragginess of the north, everything — weather included — seemed stormier and riotous but more spectacular because of it.

As the capital of the north, Akureyri at its heart provided us with a base from which to explore the wilds of the Diamond Circle. It’s distinguished by the ruggedness of Lake Myvatn, glacially fed waterfalls, frozen-over meadows, and striking leviathans. Dip your big toe into the frozen north if you dare.

Waterfall Fantasia

Our first stop up north, between Akureyri and Lake Myvatn, was Godafoss. The “Waterfall of the Gods” was named for the pagan god statues and was where Icelanders plunged in after they converted to Christianity. Looking down into the seething barrage of the semi-circular cascade, my mind flooded with understanding as to why a near-religious significance was ascribed to this place.

Another formidable waterfall an hour down Road 842 was Aldeyjarfoss, situated midway in the glacial river, Skjalfandafljot. At this one, the water hollowed out peculiar columns of basalt formations and rock bowls, like a giant church organ suspended in a snowscape.

Positioned on the epic highland road’s northern edge, Sprengisandur, the threat of it disappearing grew as the hydropower dam construction neared approval.

Perhaps the most intoxicating waterfall in Europe, about 100 miles northeast of Aldeyjarfoss, Dettifoss tumbles glacial river at 500 cubic meters per second over its lip. If you’ve seen Prometheus’ opener, it’s easy to see why it’s a movie star. The force of Icelandic nature was at its most glaring display here.

Even from the parking lot (a 10-minute walk away), we heard the deep thundering of Dettifoss. Intense spray emerged beside the torrent as the iron-grey water churned relentlessly over the precipice. Were the Earth flat, this is surely what the edge would look like. A profoundly elemental side of Iceland, it made a mind-concentrating sight.

One of Iceland’s most active volcanoes — teeming with vital moss and ribbons of bizarre lava formations — Krafla, erupted nine times between ’75 and ’84.

After doubling back on ourselves for an hour from Dettifoss, we chanced upon the Krafla Geothermal Centre between the volcano and Lake Myvatn. As a world-leading geothermal power plant, abundant, sustainable energy is a blessing, providing warmth to local homes in the bitter wintertime.

Indeed, a soothing dip in the nearby hot springs warmed the coldest of my extremities. A stone’s throw away, I found myself in a geothermal heated outdoor shower. I’m not one to miss out on a complimentary wash but “refreshing” is a weak term when the air’s a stiff 14 degrees.

The Highlands: Remove Dentures, Tighten Bra Straps

Astronauts once trained on Icelandic terra firma. Hardly surprising when we saw the unearthly similarity to the moon . The stark Highlands, also called the desert interior, spilled over with lunar-like craters, glacial lakes and springs, jagged lava fields, hotpots, and explosive unnamed waterfalls.

My truly favorite region, it felt as unchartered as the seabed. Uninhabited as much as inhospitable, the interior wilderness is only accessible in the summer. It doesn’t have services or assistance nearby, and gas stations are few and far between. It was time to get our game face on. This overlanding business just got real.

Taking on several microclimates, the Highlands, which were mostly 2,000 feet above sea level, called for vigilance at all times. There’s a local saying: “If you don’t like what’s happening with the weather, wait 10 minutes.”

The summer is no stranger to cold conditions. It can snow on any day of the year in the Highlands. This was the one place where our decision to invest in an expedition truck with 4×4, drive-up-a-wall, all-terrain tire capabilities was never better appreciated.

During the onset of winter, sometime after official summertime was over when road closures increasingly occurred, White Rhino flawlessly navigated us to places 2WD vehicles simply wouldn’t have a hope of reaching.

Filled with deep glacial water, the streams and rivers barely hiding lethal currents regularly flooded without warning. Although the temperature drops by only a few degrees in the Highlands, it sometimes proves fatal during a downpour. Hypothermia can set in between 32 to 39 degrees.

Clearly, there was no better place to experience the pristine and powerful. That said, Iceland was a study in forbearance because light and weather changed nonstop. It’s what made the Highlands a photographer’s Shangri-La.

Apple Crater

Near Hestalda and Rauðkembingar, a sequence of switchbacks in the Hekla Highlands cutting into the landscape took us on a marked track around an apple-red and fluorescent-green volcano called Raudaskal, otherwise dubbed Apple Crater.

Near the top, the route saw us negotiate a soft pillowy patch, where the gradient became sharper but manageable in the final third. Our derrieres getting an involuntary workout, we cautiously crested White Rhino on the moonlike crater and stood on the volcano’s edge, the abyss at our feet.

In a wicked wind chill, Jason’s ears glowed a crimson red in the crisp air. Worth every frozen finger and toe — even my gums were stone cold — the aerial view was as succulently sweet as it gets.

Having to conquer some deeper-than-advisable river crossings to get there, Thorsmork was a forested nature reserve. Lined by active volcanoes, the verdant valley of Thor was studded with vividly colored rhyolite mountains. Add in an arresting composition of erupting geysers, deep canyons, and on the outskirts, beautiful birch forests.

It was here we spotted our first Arctic fox roaming in the wild. Fed by the manager of the guesthouse in Thorsmork, the potbellied creature showed itself as pretty tame when proffered with chunks of reindeer sausage and salami breakfast leftovers every other morning.

Cyclonic Endings on an Epic Iceland Road Trip

Ten weeks charged by, which soon saw our penultimate day arrive. Dawn broke across the landscape, setting the snowline on vibrant silver fire. There was an eerie stillness about the island. The whole place seemed to be in the iron grip of its inestimable will. The skies were ablaze in neon pink and deep, dynamic lavender. Even the environment took on a glow from a light I’d never seen before.

While the mesmerizing silence ensued, disconcerting weather alerts raced across our phones. Urgent communications pinged and beckoned us to respond to a sailing update. Our crossing had been brought forward by 24 hours.

Startlingly, a 10-year bombogenesis cyclone was due to imminently hit Iceland in the north as we were to set sail out of the east. Maybe the Norse Gods were bored and would throw us a lifeline. We were still 170 snow-compacted miles from our ferry.

On top, the mountain pass to get us home was due to close, the only route leading us to safe passage. Alas. Even so, there’s nothing like a cyclonic bombogenesis to round off one’s Icelandic adventures.

Everything else was wiped out in our glorious surroundings and the absolute concentration of the icy ride hightailing it out of there. I set out catastrophizing, uncertain, but we reached our vessel, relieved and elated.

So Long, Iceland

There will always be jewels in Earth’s crown that have eluded all human endeavors to be tamed — fattened-up Arctic foxes excluded. Iceland is one of those precious gems — wondrously faceted yet boundlessly vulnerable.

For Jason and me, there’s more Iceland in our future. Whether that’s our second time or sixtieth, its enduring beauty perpetuated by unending change just won’t get old.

If nothing else, Iceland will sharpen the sense that there is no time to ponder how life should pan out. It’s a place that will leave you ready to embrace your aliveness. It will give you sparkling energy to imbibe the island’s dazzling vibrancy. It did me.

Backpacking Abroad: Hiking and Exploring Iceland's Lesser-Known Trails

Home to three times more sheep than people, Iceland may seem like a hiker and backpacker’s paradise. In some ways it is, and in some ways it isn’t. Read more…

Four Wheeled Nomad is Lisa Morris and Jason Spafford. Remote worldly exploration for the last 22+ years enables their passion as content creators. Lisa’s been telling tales from the trails for 20 years, freelancing for publications worldwide since 2014 to inspire people to preserve the wild places left in the world. Jason is a photographer and filmmaker; his penchant for the former began in 1983. Jason’s internationally published portfolio is layered in adventure travel, commercial, landscape, and wildlife. Previously, they co-ran scuba diving trips, then motorcycled 80,000 miles from Antarctica to the top of Alaska over five years, and have spent months in an Indian ashram intensively practicing yoga and meditation. Recent years have seen them hiking and driving in remote corners of the planet. British-born and location independent, the couple’s expertise lies in Camping, Filmmaking, Hiking, Motorcycling, Outdoor Gear, Overlanding (4WD), Photography, Scuba Diving, Spirituality, and Trekking.

Follow Us On

Subscribe Now

Get adventure news and gear reviews in your inbox!

Join Our GearJunkie Newsletter

Gear Top Stories Deals

ICELAND OVERLAND EXPEDITION

Our popular 16 day Iceland camping tour is a budget-friendly trip that takes you to all the highlights of Iceland including the remote Westfjords. This in-depth tour circumnavigates the whole island and also gives you an option to visit the Central Highlands as well as the active Fagradalsfjall volcano which has been erupting intermittently since 2021. Our Iceland tour is suitable for all ages and anyone with a passion for true adventure travel!

ESSENTIAL INFORMATION

Prices from: £3218 Length: 16 days, 15 nights Accommodation: 100% camping Transport:  100% custom-built Dragoman overland truck Meals: 15 breakfasts and 15 evening meals provided Crew: 1 tour leader, 1 driver Age restrictions: none, all ages are welcome Group size: 20 is average, minimum is 10, maximum is 24

DATES, PRICES & BOOKING

Route map & tour highlights.

Our itinerary has been designed to show you the best of Iceland in a comfortable timeframe. The itinerary rarely changes on this tour but please be prepared to accept minor itinerary changes in the event we encounter any problems.

DAY 1 – REYKJAVÍK

Today we all meet at the Reykjavík Campsite and a pre-departure meeting will be held at 18H00 for those who would like to attend. 

An early arrival on day 1 will ensure you allow enough time to have a wander around Iceland’s colourful capital city Reykjavík which is home to some superb museums, historic buildings and lively pubs.

Dinner will be provided at the campsite this evening after the pre-departure meeting so feel free to attend and meet your fellow travellers over dinner and drinks.

Our first night will be spent camping at the Reykjavík Campsite.

DAY 2 - SNÆFELLSNES PENINSULA - KIRKJUFELL - BERSERKJAHRAUN LAVA FIELD - SHARK MUSEUM

We depart Reykjavík Campsite at 0800 and head north to the beautiful Snæfellsnes Peninsula where the mammoth Snæfellsjökull Glacier dominates the centre of the peninsula and offers a beautiful backdrop to the surrounding scenery.

In the morning we journey around the peninsula, first visiting the sights at Arnarstapi, where there are rock arches and basalt columns, backed by a black pebble beach, before stopping for lunch at the small fishing port of Ólafsvík.

After lunch we continue to the dramatic 463m tall Kirkjufell Mountain, walk amongst the other-worldly lava fields at Berserkjahraun and learn all about Greenland Sharks at the Bjarnarhöfn Shark Museum. At the Shark Museum there is also an opportunity to sample the traditional Icelandic food of fermented shark. 

Tonight we camp in Stykkishólmur.

DAY 3 - WESTFJORDS - LÁTRABJARG SEA CLIFFS - PUFFINS

Today we take a drive along dramatic coastal scenery to reach the remote Westfjords and Látrabjarg Sea Cliffs, Europe’s most westerly point, home to millions of sea-birds including Skuas, Arctic Terns, Guillemots, Eider Ducks, Razorbills and of course the iconic Atlantic Puffins!

Tonight we camp a short distance away from the puffin nesting cliffs at a beautiful campsite close to the deserted Breiðavík beach where anyone brave enough can take a cool dip in the Atlantic Ocean.

DAY 4 - WESTFJORDS - SHIPWRECK - DYNJANDI WATERFALL

This morning we will visit the famous Gardar BA64 shipwreck, Iceland’s oldest steel ship that was run aground here in 1981 after decades of faithful service.

The rest of the day is spent exploring the remote Westfjords, one of Iceland’s most beautiful regions and unseen by most tourists as it is so far off the beaten track.

As we hug the roads around the blue fjords we pass through numerous picturesque fishing villages and also visit Dynjandi, the largest waterfall in the Westfjords.

We end the day at a campsite close to the charming capital of the Westfjords, Ísafjörður.

DAY 5 - WESTFJORDS SCENIC DRIVE - HÓLMAVÍK WITCHCRAFT MUSEUM - THERMAL POOLS

Today we continue around the dramatic Westfjords coastline and have lunch in Hólmavík, a small village famous for its Witchcraft Museum.

We end the day camping in the grounds of a country hotel in Húnavellir, close to Blönduós, where you have the option to have a dip in a thermal pool.

DAY 6 - TRÖLLASKAGI PENINSULA - SCENIC ROUTE 76 - AKUREYRI

We start the day by travelling around the Tröllaskagi Peninsula on Route 76 which is rated as one of Iceland’s most picturesque drives with dramatic coastal and mountain scenery.

At lunchtime we arrive at Iceland's ‘capital of the north’ Akureyri and have the rest of the day to explore the city’s museums & gardens or just relax in the old town sipping locally brewed craft beer and sampling some of Iceland’s best cuisine.

Tonight we camp close to Akureyri.

DAY 7 - GOÐAFOSS WATERFALL - LAKE MÝVATN - HVERFJALL VOLCANO CRATER

Not far out of Akureyri we spend an hour at the impressive Goðafoss waterfall before continuing to Lake Mývatn, the undisputed gem of the northeast with a landscape full of spluttering mud-pots, weird lava formations, steaming fumaroles and volcanic craters.

Our journey around Lake Mývatn includes stops at Skútustaðagígar craters, lava pillars at Höfði, Dimmuborgir lava fields, Hverfjall volcano crater and Grjótagjá lava caves.

We end the day close to the shores of Lake Mývatn where you have the option to spend the afternoon relaxing at the Nature Baths, the Blue Lagoon of the North.

We will spend tonight camping close to Reykjahlíð village.

DAY 8 - LAKE MÝVATN - CENTRAL HIGHLANDS - ASKJA CALDERA

Today you have a free day to relax at Lake Mývatn or you have the option of travelling by 4x4 into the Central Highlands to visit one of Iceland’s most spectacular sights, Askja caldera, a sulphur-blue lake born out of the cataclysmic volcanic eruption in 1875. The nearby Viti crater offers the option for a geothermal swim. The journey to Askja takes you through an area that was used by NASA during training for the Apollo program , to prepare astronauts for the lunar missions. This stark, barren and otherworldly landscape is one of Iceland's many dramatic and unique scenes, and it won’t take long to appreciate why NASA used the area.

DAY 9 - HVERIR GEOTHERMAL AREA - KRAFLA CALDERA - HÚSAVÍK WHALE WATCHING

This morning we will visit the Hverir geothermal area where we spend an hour walking through a truly unique orangy-red landscape of fumaroles, large mud pools and steam vents.

We continue to the impressive Krafla caldera, a beautiful sight in a region of extreme geothermal activity where you can walk up to the crater rim and look down into the turquoise waters within the crater.

A couple of hours away on the north coast we reach the town of Húsavík, undeniably the best place in Iceland to go whale watching. Those who wish to see these magnificent creatures up close can spend the afternoon whale watching on a boat tour where you have the chance to see humpbacks, minke and blue whales.

Those who do not wish to do the whale watching tour can spend the day exploring the small town of Húsavík, a pretty fishing town with an interesting whale & exploration museum. End the day soaking yourself in the spectacular geothermal heated pools overlooking the North Atlantic.

We will spend tonight camping in the town of Húsavík.

DAY 10 - DETTIFOSS & SELFOSS WATERFALLS - SEYÐISFJÖRÐUR

Today we will drive through the Vatnajökull National Park, to visit a huge canyon that ends at Europe’s most powerful waterfall, Dettifoss. Standing on the edge overlooking this gushing torrent is an experience not to be missed!

Just upstream from Dettifoss you will find Selfoss waterfall, well worth the half hour trek for outstanding views.

In the afternoon we will continue to Seyðisfjörður, a picturesque little town in eastern Iceland situated at the end of a fjord surrounded by steep mountains and famed for its rainbow street. The town is a step back in time and is crammed with 19th century timber buildings, quaint coffee shops and traditional restaurants.

We will spend this evening camping in the heart of Seyðisfjörður.

DAY 11 - GUFUFOSS - VESTRAHORN - HÖFN

This morning we will stop to see the beautiful Gufufoss waterfall before we take the scenic route through the mountains to reach the south coast.

We will stop for lunch in the small fishing village of Djúpivogur, a pretty village nestled on the side of a fjord. From here, we continue the drive along Iceland's spectacular eastfjords, eventually reaching one of the country's most iconic sights, Vestrahorn. On a clear day you can see this majestic mountain range rising out of the sea to produce one of the most stunning vistas on the island!

Further along the coast we reach the town of Höfn, where we spend the night.

DAY 12 - JÖKULSÁRLÓN GLACIER LAGOON - HOFSKIRKJA - SKAFTAFELL NATIONAL PARK

Driving along this part of the south coast we have a good chance of spotting wild reindeer before reaching one of Iceland’s most iconic sights, the Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon. Here you have the option to take a boat trip amongst the ancient icebergs and walk along Diamond Beach, a stretch of black sand littered with icebergs.

Further along the coast we encounter the fairytale-like church of Hofskirkja, the last turf church ever built in Iceland.

Our final destination today is Skaftafell National Park where we will spend 2 nights camping to allow us enough time to visit this amazing area of outstanding beauty.

DAY 13 - SKAFTAFELL NATIONAL PARK - HIKING - GLACIER TREKKING

Today is a great day to get your hiking boots on and hit one of Skaftafell’s many hiking trails that lead to incredible views of glaciers, waterfalls and mountains. The more adventurous can put on their crampons and go glacier trekking. The less adventurous can kick back and enjoy a cold beer with a magnificent view.

We will spend this evening camping in Skaftafell National Park.

DAY 14 - VÍK - REYNISFJARA BLACK SAND BEACH - SKÓGAFOSS WATERFALL - GEYSIR

From Skaftafell we continue to the remote seaside village of Vík where you have time to shop for some Icelandic souvenirs before heading over the hill to the world-famous Reynisfjara black sand beach. Enormous basalt stacks, dramatic rock arches, roaring Atlantic waves and stunning panoramas make this one of the world’s most highly rated non-tropical beaches and a great place for us to have lunch.

This afternoon we continue to the spectacular Skógafoss waterfall, one of Iceland’s largest and most famous.

Later in the day we also visit Seljalandsfoss, a unique waterfall distinguished by the fact that you can fully encircle the falls via a path that leads you behind the cascading water and out the other side.

At the end of the day we reach Geysir, the place after which all other geysers are named, where we spend the night at a campsite with a view over a steaming landscape.

DAY 15 - GULLFOSS WATERFALL - GEYSIR - ÞINGVELLIR NATIONAL PARK - GRINDAVÍK

We start the day with a visit to Iceland’s most iconic waterfall, Gullfoss. This powerful waterfall plummets down 32 metres in 2 stages into a rugged canyon, an awesome spectacle.

A short drive away we now visit Geysir where you have time to wander through an extraordinary landscape of bubbling hot springs and steaming fumaroles. The geysers have been active for perhaps 800 years and still erupt regularly enough for you to get a natural geothermal shower during your visit!

We continue to Þingvellir National Park where the American and Eurasian tectonic plates meet to form an incredible fissured rift valley. This is also Iceland’s most important historic site where the Vikings established the world’s first democratic parliament.

We end the day at Grindavík, a beautiful Icelandic fishing town on the south coast of the Reykjanes Peninsula where we camp near the town centre. If the weather is good we may decide to visit the active Fagradalsfjall volcano this evening.

PLEASE NOTE: This last night at Grindavík is subject to change depending on the volcanic activity in the area.

DAY 16 - FAGRADALSFJALL ACTIVE VOLCANO - REYKJAVÍK

We start the final day of the tour with a visit to the active Fagradalsfjall volcano which has been erupting intermittently since early 2021. A 20 minute walk takes us up to the steaming lava fields where you can see a valley filled with molten rock and the scars of where it flooded down the valley sides. This is a once in a lifetime experience you will never forget!

Our tour ends upon arrival back in Reykjavík in the mid-afternoon. Accommodation is not provided tonight as many people fly home today but should you wish to spend tonight in Reykjavik you are welcome to stay at the Reykjavík campsite where the tour officially ends. For anyone who does stay in Reykjavík tonight we usually have a group farewell dinner at a local restaurant close to the campsite.

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION

Booking & payment.

HOW TO BOOK

To make a booking please fill in our online booking form and then pay a £300 deposit by Bank Transfer, Paypal, Wise or Credit/Debit Card. 

Once we receive your online booking form and deposit we will confirm your booking by email and send you all relevant information necessary for your expedition preparations.

TOUR PAYMENT

The Tour Payment of £3218 is the complete payment for your tour and is payable in the U.K. in GBP (£ Sterling). In order to reserve a place on this tour you must pay £300 as a deposit. Eight months prior to departure a further payment of £1300 must be paid to secure your booking. The final balance of your Tour Payment £1618 must then be paid in full at least four months prior to the tour start date. If you book between 4 to 8 months prior to the departure date a deposit of £1600 should be paid upon booking. If you book within 4 months of the departure date the full Tour Payment of £3218 should be paid upon booking.

The Tour Payment can be paid by Bank Transfer, Paypal, Wise or Credit/Debit Card.

Bank Details for Direct Transfers

Please use your full name as a reference when paying by direct transfer.

Account name: Madventure Ltd.

Sort code: 400810

Account number: 91618415

IBAN : GB14HBUK40081091618415

Swift/Bank BIC: HBUKGB4B

Branch BIC: HBUKGB4116A

Bank address: HSBC Bank, 6 High Street, Abingdon, Oxfordshire, OX14 5AZ, United Kingdom

Please use your full name as a reference when paying by Paypal.

Paypal account name: [email protected]

Don’t have a Paypal account? Create one now - www.paypal.com

Please use your full name as a reference when paying by Wise.

Wise offers a cheap & fast international money transfer service where you can choose to make a payment using either your bank account or credit/debit card.

Don’t have a Wise account? Create one now - www.wise.com

Credit/Debit Card Payments

Call us on +44 7858 468 953 in order to make a Credit/Debit Card payment over the phone.

WHAT’S INCLUDED & WHAT’S NOT

Services of your Dragoman tour leader and driver

Transportation in our custom built Dragoman overland truck

Diesel, mechanics, repairs and any other costs relating to the vehicles

Use of our own group cook tent, seating and cooking equipment

15 breakfasts and 15 evening meals

All accommodation costs (100% camping)

Entry to all places that we visit as a group with our vehicle

Local transportation costs (if required)

NOT INCLUDED

International and domestic flights (no domestic flights expected during tour)

Airport transfers

Personal travel insurance

Personal spending money (£150 – £200 per week recommended)

Visas (most nationalities do not require a visa to enter Iceland)

Accommodation upgrades

Entrance fees to optional sites and national parks

Any optional activities and excursions

Tent, roll mat, sleeping bag and pillow

Tips ($150 per crew member recommended)

OPTIONAL EXCURSIONS

Below is a list of the most popular optional excursions along with the most recent prices. Prices can of course change and are not controlled in any way by Dragoman so please use the list below as an approximate guide only. Prices are shown in GBP.

Shark museum - £10

Holmavik Witchcraft Museum - £10

Myvatn Nature Baths - £38

Husavik whale watching tour - £60

Husavik puffin and whale watching tour - £100

Askja caldera - £185

Amphibian boat trip on Jokulsarlon Iceberg Lagoon - £35

Zodiac boat trip on Jokulsarlon Iceberg Lagoon - £60

Skaftafell glacier trekking - £60

TRANSPORT & EQUIPMENT

We will be travelling in a custom-built Dragoman overland vehicle 100% of the time on this tour. Our vehicle can accommodate up to 24 travellers and 2 crew.

Comfort and safety is of course a big factor during expeditions of this length and nature so all our vehicles have high-backed coach seats with safety belts. The seating is on the upper level of the vehicle giving you an almost 360° view of the surrounding scenery.

Our vehicles are designed to allow sufficient luggage storage and are also equipped with lockers to keep all your gear safe.

Our long range diesel and water tanks ensure our self sufficiency in remote areas and the equipment we take with us is also of vital importance. In case of a breakdown we are equipped with a good selection of spare parts as well as a comprehensive tool kit to undertake any necessary repairs on our own as and when we need to.

There may also be times when we get stuck in the sand or mud when travelling off road so all necessary recovery equipment such as sand mats, cables, ropes, shovels and pickaxes are also on board.

We usually carry 400 litres of treated drinking water and we are equipped with a good kitchen which includes all cutlery, plates, cups, pots and pans, utensils, gas cooker, BBQ grate, tables, etc.

Our vehicle is also equipped with a small fridge which is used for the cook group’s breakfast and dinner food only. For personal food and drinks we have cooler boxes for everyone to use.

Comfortable fold up chairs are provided for outdoor seating and we also have a large cook tent to keep us dry on those rainy days.

Our vehicles are equipped with USB charging points only so try and bring all of your important electronic devices such as telephone, tablet and head-torch to charge from a USB socket. We do not have a 120V or 240V power supply on the vehicle but you will have the opportunity to charge your 120/240V electronic equipment at the campsites we stay at.

We carry a comprehensive first aid kit for emergencies but we do recommend you bring your own for general use.

FOOD & COOKING

Eating well is a very important factor on our tours and good food is vital for everyone’s health and well-being so we always strive to prepare healthy, wholesome and plentiful meals.

15 breakfasts and 15 evening meals are provided during this tour and will be prepared from our own kitchen on the truck. For lunch we usually stop at a supermarket or a restaurant giving you a chance to taste the local fare too. Lunch is at your own expense. 

When it comes to shopping and cooking we will divide ourselves up into groups of 3 or 4 people (depending on group size) who will shop for and prepare the day’s meals and clean up at the end. This will work out that you roughly get to cook once a week (depending on numbers).

Fresh food is generally available daily so we try to eat meat and vegetables for every main evening meal. We do also cater to vegetarians but we cannot cater to fussiness. In these group situations everybody must appreciate we cannot cater to individual likes and dislikes.

Don’t worry if you are not a gourmet cook as your crew are also always there to give advice.

All our vehicles are equipped with a small fridge which is used for the cook group's food only. For personal food and drinks we have cooler boxes for everyone to use.

Cleanliness plays an important role throughout this expedition and your crew will make sure an acceptable level of general hygiene is maintained throughout your journey to ensure the wellbeing of the group.

ACCOMMODATION

You will spend 100% of your time on this tour in your tent, camping.

We use designated campsites with amenities every night so you will have shower facilities and ablutions available daily.

From past experience we have found that people prefer to supply their own tents as they are then not forced to share and they can pick a tent that suits their needs. As a general rule try to choose a good quality, lightweight, compact, waterproof and windproof tent that is easy to erect, take down and carry.

You will have a crew of 1 tour leader and 1 driver on this tour. On some tours we may also have a cameraman who is there to help market our tours and update our social media.

Your tour leader will be in charge of routes, itineraries, food and accommodation and will ensure the smooth running of the tour. Your tour leader is not a tour guide and will not be giving you the history and facts of every place we visit, you can look up that information yourself or hire a local guide when you want to. Apart from the odd excursion that needs to be organised by the tour leader in advance, we leave most of that for you to arrange yourselves, this way ensuring you get to do what you want at the price you are happy to pay.

Your driver will drive and maintain the vehicle to a high standard but he/she is not a tour guide and may not know all the facts about Iceland.

Your crew will be hand-picked and trained by Dragoman and will have experience of overland travel but they may or may not have done this tour before. They will, however, have detailed notes from previous tours and backup from the office in the UK.

Tipping the crew at the end of your expedition is always appreciated if you feel they have done a good job. We recommend you tip your crew a minimum of $150 each at the end of the tour. Thank you.

PRE-DEPARTURE INFORMATION

Personal budget & travel money.

PERSONAL BUDGET

We recommend a budget of £150 – £200 per person per week to live comfortably during this tour. This budget should cover day to day things like lunches, snacks, soft drinks, the odd few beers, etc.

Souvenirs are something that can be very cheap or very expensive, so if you are going to be buying souvenirs you should budget for it.

Please also have a look at our Optional Excursions list as you may want to budget for a few of those activities too.

TRAVEL MONEY

We recommend you bring all of your spending money on your credit/debit card as generally cards are accepted everywhere in Iceland.

ATM’s are also widely available for you to withdraw local currency using your credit/debit card.

To keep your money/credit cards/ipod/camera/laptop safe you may want to consider purchasing a ‘Pacsafe Travelsafe’ product. They offer various size portable anti-theft bags that can be attached to the vehicle when travelling and also attached to any immovable object when off the vehicle.

VISAS & PASSPORTS

Below is general information and recommendations regarding visas and passports. Visas are ultimately your own responsibility to obtain and visa requirements may vary according to your nationality and place of application, so use the information below as a guide only. Dragoman is in no way responsible for obtaining your visas or passports.

Most nationalities do not require a visa to visit Iceland. 

Some nationalities may require a Schengen visa to visit Iceland so if you are unsure please check with your closest Icelandic embassy.

Please ensure you have 1 free page in your passport in order to accommodate any stamps and ensure your passport is valid for at least 6 months after the tour end date.

VACCINATIONS & MEDICAL

VACCINATIONS

Vaccination requirements are constantly changing so we recommend you seek the latest professional medical advice at least 8 weeks before departure to ensure you allow yourself enough time to obtain all necessary vaccinations. Nomad Travel’s website has up-to-date information on vaccinations and other general medical advice, and they also administer vaccinations at their Travel Clinics in various locations within the UK.

www.nomadtravel.co.uk

Alternatively, speak with your local Health Professionals for current accurate information. You will need to make an appointment with your GP or Travel Clinic and take a list of the countries you are visiting and the approximate dates when you will be there.

It is not necessary to be vaccinated against covid to join this tour but if you are vaccinated against covid please have a digital colour copy of your Covid 19 vaccination certificate with QR code (5 - 100 Kb in size) downloaded to your phone/tablet/laptop.

MEDICALLY FIT & ABLE

You need to be in good general health for this tour and be reasonably fit and able. The main concern is that everyone is able to pitch in equally and do their fair share when it comes to group activities like packing gear in and out of the truck, erecting the cook tent, setting up the kitchen, etc. You will also be pitching your own tent and setting up your own sleeping gear. You do not need to be super-fit by any means and all ages are welcome. We always attract a very broad age range on these expeditions, from people in their 20’s through to people in their 70’s.

Please inform us of any medical conditions that you have before departure so that your crew know how to deal with a medical situation if it should arise. All information will be kept confidential unless you request us to inform your fellow travellers. For example, it may be wise to inform fellow travellers if you are allergic to something like bee-stings so they know what to do if you get stung.

FIRST AID KIT

We carry a comprehensive first aid kit aboard the vehicle but it is recommended that you bring your own basic first aid kit for general use.

TRAVEL INSURANCE

It is compulsory that every person who travels with Dragoman obtain travel insurance for the complete duration of the tour. Proof of travel insurance must be shown before joining a tour.

As this is a relatively short tour you may be covered under your credit card’s travel insurance so it may be worth checking with your credit card provider first.

There are various travel insurance companies to choose from and a Google search will bring up a vast selection but for a comprehensive reliable policy that includes Covid Cover and Medical Repatriation we recommend a London based company named Campbell Irvine, +44 20 7938 1734, https://microsite.campbellirvinedirect.com/madventure/  

Campbell Irvine is familiar with what we do so if you mention Dragoman and the tour you are travelling on they should be able to provide excellent cover for you.

For people based in North America a company called Allianz offers good cover, +1 866 884 3556, www.allianztravelinsurance.com

If you choose to obtain your travel insurance through another company please ensure you read the small-print and make sure your policy includes Covid Cover and Medical Repatriation.

WHAT TO BRING

Tent: A good quality lightweight, compact, waterproof and windproof tent is recommended for this tour. If you are travelling on your own you are restricted to a 1-2 man sized tent. If you are sharing a tent, you are restricted to a 2-3 man sized tent.

Sleeping bag: Any good quality 3 or 4 season sleeping bag will be fine but one with a 'Mummy Hood' is a good idea for the times that it will be cold. Please make sure that your sleeping bag has a 'crush bag' so it can be compacted down.

Sleeping bag liner: A Thermal Fleece or Silk Liner will bring your sleeping bag up a season for times when it is cold.

Roll Mat: A compact inflatable Thermarest roll mat is recommended. A non-compact mat will not be permitted as they take up too much room.

Pillow: If you do wish to bring a pillow (most people just bring a pillow case and stuff their fleece in it at night) then Thermarest makes a good stuff pillow that compacts down small.

Backpack/sports bag/suitcase: We recommend you carry your luggage in a backpack but, if you prefer a sports bag or a suitcase, you are restricted to a maximum 100 litre volume. 

Day bag:  You are also permitted to bring a day bag with a maximum 40 litre volume.

Pacsafe: to keep your money/credit cards/Ipod/camera/laptop safe you may want to consider purchasing a ‘Pacsafe Travelsafe’ product. They offer various size portable anti-theft bags that can be attached to the vehicle when travelling and also attached to any immovable object when off the vehicle.

Kindle: optional but great to keep all your travel guides and books in 1 place.

Ipad/Tablet: not a necessity but most places have WiFi available these days so having your own Ipad or Tablet will enable you to stay connected.

Smartphone :  It is highly recommended that you bring a smartphone with you as the majority of the tour communications are sent via WhatsApp. It is also very convenient for storing all your digital documents, emailing, taking and sharing photos, mapping and calling home. 

Camera: completely up to you but most people bring one.

Toiletries: available everywhere but start with some toilet paper, toothpaste, toothbrush, dental floss, deodorant, soap and shampoo.

Sunblock: a minimum SPF 15 recommended.

Sunglasses: polarised lenses offer great protection.

Towel: a microfibre travel towel is a good option as it dries quickly and packs down small.

First aid kit: only a basic one is recommended but should include plasters, antiseptic cream, bandage, pain relief tablets, scissors and safety pins.

Passport: Please ensure you have 1 free page in your passport in order to accommodate any stamps and ensure your passport is valid for at least 6 months after the tour end date.

Clothes & shoes:  

1 x flip flops

1 x walking shoes, trainers or boots

7 x underwear

1 x thermal underwear

1 x thermal gloves

4 x t-shirts

1 x lightweight long sleeve top

1 x fleece top or fleece jacket

1 x wet weather jacket

1 x wet weather trousers

2 x zip-off  trousers which can be worn long or short

1 x thermal beanie or woolly hat

1 x baseball cap

1 x swimwear

WHAT TO EXPECT

Overlanding with Dragoman in Iceland is all about taking the road less travelled in a custom-built overland expedition vehicle with a group of up to 24 travellers of all ages and nationalities. This overland tour moves at a relaxed pace and visits remote areas as well as the highlights of Iceland. Overland travel in Iceland affords you the time to really immerse yourself in the culture of the local communities we visit and gives you the opportunity to truly explore off the beaten track destinations. This overland tour may sometimes take you out of your comfort zone as it involves a lot of camping but to truly discover Iceland’s beauty we feel that you need to get back to nature and camp amongst its spectacular scenery. We believe it is these experiences that make overlanding in Iceland so rewarding. So if you are looking for a unique adventure shared with a group of like-minded travellers on a journey of a lifetime then an Iceland overland tour may be the trip for you because with overlanding it's all about the journey, not just the destination!

At Dragoman we like to go through every aspect of the tour with you to ensure that you are as informed and prepared as possible. We believe in not only telling you about the highlights of the tour but also providing you with all the small details of what to expect as we know these are just as important. We want to explain the tour in as much detail as possible so that you are sure you are suited to one of our overland group adventures. If after reading the information below you decide that this tour is not for you then, as long as it is within 14 days of your initial booking, you can cancel your booking and receive a full refund of all monies paid.

YOUR FELLOW TRAVELLERS

We have no age restrictions on our overland tours and if there is one thing we have come to realise, it’s the mental attitude that counts the most. On this trip our group size is a maximum of 24 travellers of all ages and nationalities so you can expect to share this experience with a wide variety of characters from all walks of life. 

Our Iceland overland tours always run in the summer as the temperature is moderate and the roads are all open, so this tour should be comfortable for most travellers as it is neither too hot nor too cold in Iceland’s summer.

You must maintain your own personal hygiene and ensure that you and your clothes are washed regularly. If anyone stinks or is noticeably unclean the tour leader will have a word with that person to ensure a decent level of personal hygiene is maintained by everyone aboard the vehicle.

SIGHTSEEING & ACTIVITIES

In Iceland the majority of the sites are free to visit and have information boards in English, so there are very few places where a local guide is required. If there are any activities that require forward planning and/or a guide your tour leader will arrange this and let you know all the options before arriving at a destination.

Most of the sites in Iceland involve some short walks but there are some longer treks for those who are keen on hiking. You are completely free to do as you choose on this tour so you can be as active or inactive as you like.

YOUR ATTITUDE

A friendly, easy-going attitude will help you enjoy this trip and ensure you are liked by your fellow travellers as well as the locals. The one thing that is extremely detrimental to any tour are people that constantly moan. It has nothing to do with age, gender or nationality, some people just like to find fault in everything and it’s always got to be someone’s fault. This type of constant negativity can be extremely detrimental within a group so it may sound a bit harsh but by weeding out any moaners early on we can have a chat with them to try and ensure your tour is as good as it can be. We don’t hide anything so people who travel with us usually know exactly what to expect on this tour which makes for an enjoyable group experience.

Please be aware that if any particular person is constantly causing the rest of the group (or the crew) grief due to their behaviour they will be warned and then asked to leave the tour if nothing improves and no refund will be given. This is obviously the most extreme case but we will not let one or two rude individuals spoil it for everybody else. This is a once in a lifetime experience so let’s all enjoy it!

WHEN THINGS GO WRONG

When we are in Iceland things generally go to plan but if something unexpected does delay us or force us to change our itinerary please understand that sometimes things happen that are simply out of our control and we may have to make alternative arrangements. Please be prepared to expect the unexpected and accept that things might go wrong from time to time. An easy-going approach will help the situation immensely. Moaning about every little thing that doesn’t go our way will not! When situations arise where we can’t please everybody we always aim to please the majority of the group, not the individual. 

TRAVEL TIMES & ITINERARIES

We are driving around Iceland in 16 days so yes, there are going to be quite a few drive days, but we have designed this tour with plenty of stops along the way to break up the journeys. We travel by day and arrive at our destinations before nightfall. This is quite a relaxed tour but on the longer drive days you must be able to take pleasure in the scenery or a good book from time to time.

We always strive to arrive at our destinations on time but our itinerary can change if an area of our route becomes off-limits for any reason, so in the unlikely event that we do experience any delays we will adjust our itinerary accordingly.

DRUGS & ALCOHOL

Please be aware that drugs such as marijuana and cocaine are illegal in Iceland and they could enforce severe punishment for being caught in possession. NEVER carry illegal drugs on your person or on the vehicle during this tour as you would not only jeopardise your own freedom but also the well-being of the entire group if you are caught in possession.

If you are caught in possession of illegal drugs on this tour you will be asked to leave the tour immediately and no refund will be given. Any such inconsideration can lead to the tour being cancelled and innocent people arrested. We will not hesitate to remove someone if we have to.

Aggressive or abusive drunk behaviour will not be tolerated during this tour and if anyone is constantly abusing alcohol and causing trouble we will not hesitate to remove them from the tour and no refund will be given.

You must be fairly fit and able to ensure you can participate in certain aspects of the tour such as pitching your tent, carrying your bags to and from the vehicle, assisting with setting up the cook tent, walking around the sites we visit, etc. You do not need to be super fit by any means but if you want to do the longer walks you do need to be reasonably fit.

Our vehicles are also equipped with a small fridge which is used for the cook group’s breakfast and dinner food only. For personal food and drinks we have cooler boxes for everyone to use.

Fresh food is generally available daily so we try to eat meat and vegetables for every main evening meal. We do also cater for vegetarians but we cannot cater for fussiness. In these group situations everybody must appreciate we cannot cater for individual likes and dislikes.

Your tour leader will be in charge of routes, itineraries, food and accommodation and will ensure the smooth running of the tour. Your tour leader is not a tour guide and will not be giving you the history and facts of every place we visit, you can look up that information yourself or hire a local guide when you want to. Apart from the odd optional excursion that needs to be organised in advance, we leave most of that for you to arrange yourselves, this way ensuring you get to do what you want at the price you are happy to pay.

Tipping the crew at the end of your expedition is always appreciated if you feel they have done a good job. As this is a budget tour we recommend you tip your crew a minimum of $150 each at the end of the tour. Thank you.

CONTACT DETAILS

Dragoman, 10 Ablett Close, Oxford, OX4 1XH, United Kingdom

Phone: +44 7858 468 953

Whatsapp: +44 7858 468 953

Email: [email protected]

ADDRESS Dragoman 10 Ablett Close Oxford OX4 1XH United Kingdom

MAP GOOGLE VIEW

TELEPHONE +44 7858 468 953

WHATSAPP +44 7858 468 953

EMAIL [email protected]

• SIGN UP TO OUR NEWSLETTER
• TERMS & CONDITIONS
• FEZ TO CAPE TOWN
• CARTAGENA TO RIO DE JANEIRO
• LAHORE TO NUR-SULTAN
• SAUDI ARABIA 15 DAY
• TOKYO TO SEOUL
• OVERLAND EXPEDITIONS
• SMALL GROUP TOURS
• ABOUT DRAGOMAN
• RESPONSIBLE TRAVEL
• FINANCIAL PROTECTION

Iceland Road Trip – 26 Epic Things to See & Do

This post may contain affiliate links, from which we earn an income.

The land of fire and ice is a spectacular place for an adventurous road trip. Iceland’s volcanic and glacial terrain has shaped its nature and geography over millennia and has heavily influenced the country’s culture, is easy to visit as you travel Iceland’s famous Ring Road.

An Iceland road trip opens up the stark lava fields, glistening waterfalls, towering mountains, and thermal lagoons like no other way to travel does.

This visually arresting country will have you stopping regularly for Insta-worthy images, and along the way, you’ll find cool adventures to try like snorkeling, whale watching, and ice cave trekking.

In this Iceland travel guide, you’ll find a list of all the top sights in Iceland to visit on your road trip adventure, with Iceland travel tips and information to help you plan and prepare.

We asked some of our favorite travel bloggers to tell us about their top things to do and see in Iceland, so come with us as we share 26 unmissable places to visit on a road trip of Iceland.

Best Time for an Iceland Road Trip

Most road trippers drive Iceland’s Ring Road in summer . At this time of year, the midnight sun gives you plenty of extra daylight for driving and sightseeing. However, the route, especially close to Reykjavik, will be busier and there will be more day trip coaches on the road.

Road tripping Iceland in winter is more than possible if you’re well-prepared with the right clothing and vehicle. The conditions will be less favorable than summer, but there is still plenty to be enjoyed during the winter months.

The natural highlights will all still be there, and arguably even more stunning with a dusting of frost or snow. The months of October to March are also the best time to see the Northern lights.

If you’re looking for a bit of both worlds – warmer than winter, less busy than summer – consider shoulder season travel. While  spring  and  fall  are perhaps a bit wetter and muddier, you’ll find great deals on flights, accommodation, and activities, as well as enjoying the main attractions with fewer crowds.

How Long Do You Need for Iceland’s Ring Road Route?

To enjoy an unforgettable trip around the Ring Road we recommend taking a minimum of 10 days in summer to visit a selection of the top sights.

If you want to visit everything on our list and do a bit of hiking along the way, then you will need to take a 14-21 day road trip for your Iceland adventure.

If you only have a few days or even just a day, you can do the Golden Circle tour from Reykjavik. The Golden Circle is a route that takes in Thingvellir National Park, Haukadalur Geysir Geothermal Area, and Gullfoss Waterfall.

If you’re visiting Iceland by car in winter, you’ll need longer, whether you want to visit four or five places or see all 24. It’s harder to get around in the winter months, you can’t drive as fast and some of the roads may be in poor condition.

If you’re wondering how far is it to drive around Iceland, the Ring Road or Route 1, is a whopping 1322km. If you drive a steady 80km/h, the speed limit on rural roads in Iceland, it will take you 16 hours & 31 minutes to complete the route – that’s without stopping!

Make sure you have travel insurance you can trust when visiting Iceland . We recommend True Traveller for their 5-star TrustPilot reviews, variety of cover options, best activities cover as standard, great prices, and excellent service.

Self-Drive Car Rental

Unless you’re planning on getting the ferry from Denmark to Iceland with your own car, you’ll need to rent a car for your road trip in Iceland at Reykjavik’s Keflavík international airport.

Lava Car Rental has been awarded agency of year 2023 by Rental Cars, making them a great option for your car hire in Iceland especially as they offer 4×4 and campervans too!

Make sure you add on a GPS or sat nav rental for your hire car, or bring one with you, as Icelandic road signs are hard to read!

With direct flights from Europe, the UK and the United States, we recommend booking your flights through Skyscanner for live deals and the best prices.

If you want to visit everywhere on this list, especially the highlands and lava fields, or if you’re visiting between November and March, you will need a 4×4 vehicle. Otherwise, a regular front-wheel drive car will be absolutely fine.

For a real adventure , hire a motorhome or campervan in Iceland. Flying and hiring is a popular option for the Ring Road trip, which saves on the cost of hotels and means you have complete freedom.

Be aware though that Iceland has laws that restrict where you can spend the night in a campervan. You can no longer pull over and park and sleep wherever you like, you must park at designated campsites, of which there are plenty!

We recommend Motorhome Republic , an aggregate booking site who pull together all the best deals from a number of rental agencies, like Indie Campers, Go Campers Iceland, and Happy Campers to offer you a wide choice of options and prices alongside an excellent English speaking expert motorhome Concierge Team.

RELATED POST – Adventurous Road Trip – 26 of The World’s Most Exciting Routes

Iceland Road Trip Map

How to use this map – Use your fingers (or computer mouse) to zoom in and out. Click or touch the icons to get more info about a place, and click the arrow in the box top left to open the index. To add to your own Google Maps account, click the star next to the title of the map.

Iceland Road Trip – Top Things To See & Do

This Iceland itinerary and route assumes that you’ll head south from Reykjavik, covering the more touristy Golden Circle attractions before venturing east along route 1. But if you want to head the other way, just start at the bottom of our list!

While Reykjavik may be one of Europe’s smaller capital cities, what it lacks in size, it makes up for in breathtaking views, quirky architecture, and a charming city center with a distinctly hip vibe.

Joining a walking tour is an easy way to visit all of Reykjavik’s main must-see attractions in a day, and you’ll get an in-depth history lesson about Vikings, elves, Icelandic culture, and all the places you visit, and your guide will also be able to give you tips about other attractions and great places to eat.

Our recommended Reykjavik City Walking Tour is guided by a knowledgeable local, and covers all these Reykjavik must-sees;

• The Hallgrímskirkja Church
• Laugavegur and Skolavoroustigur streets
• Austurvöllur Main Square and Alþingi Icelandic Parliament Building & Culture House
• Harpa Concert Hall
• The historic district of Grjótaþorpið
• Tjörnin Pond, an amazing geothermal pond in the middle of the city!
• Reykjavik City Hall

RELATED POST: One Day Reykjavik Itinerary – Map, Tips & Guide

Blue Lagoon

Explored by Sinead at Map Made Memories

The Blue Lagoon is one of Iceland’s most famous attractions. As a result, many visitors may avoid visiting the lagoon thinking it will be a tourist trap but it is well worth a visit, even if you are visiting  Reykjavik on a budget.   

The Blue Lagoon is a man-made geothermal spa created by the excess from the Svartsengi power station. The lagoon’s landscaped grounds lie in a lava field, just off the main road from Reykjavik and its international airport. A trip to The Blue Lagoon can be combined with your arrival or departure from the island, or the start of your Iceland road trip. 

The lagoon has a large free car park, treatment rooms, changing rooms, showers, and a restaurant on site. It is best known for its rejuvenating milky white waters which are thermally heated to a luxurious 39 degrees Celsius. 

There is a large pool with swim-up bars and mud stations where visitors can lather mineral-rich volcanic mud onto their bodies. There is an artificial waterfall and a cooler section if needed.

The lagoon can get very busy at peak times but it is big enough that you can still find an isolated, quiet spot in which to relax. When the steam from the water is undisturbed, both visibility and noise are limited, so at times it can feel like you have the pool to yourself. 

Make sure you apply generous quantities of the freely available hair conditioner onto your hair before bathing. The conditioner protects your hair against the silica in the water; otherwise, your hair may feel like straw for days afterward.

Children under 2 are not allowed to bathe and children aged 2 to 14 receive free entry with a paying adult. Pre-booking the Blue Lagoon in advance is essential to save disappointment – this attraction gets booked up months ahead!

Don’t forget your road trip essentials! Our free road trip checklists help you remember everything, including road trip snacks , podcasts and road trip songs for the journey!

Thingvellir National Park

Explored by Suzanne at Meandering Wild

Thingvellir National Park  is located 50km east of Reykjavik and is steeped in history. In 1930 it became the first national park in Iceland, and in 2004 it was designated as a UNESCO World Heritage site.

Thingvellir was first seen in history as early as 900CE when the Icelandic parliament was formed and the subsequent annual gatherings took place in what is now the National Park. Even today the area is where important national events take place and the small church and adjacent buildings close to Silfra are worth visiting.

Geologically, Þingvellir National Park (Icelandic) is unique. The whole area lies on the Mid-Atlantic Ridge known as the Silfra Drift and is one of the few places where the fissure between the plates can be seen. This fissure provides one of the highlights of the area – snorkeling between the tectonic plates at Silfra, next on our Iceland must-do list!

Close to Silfra is Almannagja is the deep canyon between the plates, which can be explored following clearly marked paths and boardwalks. At one end of the canyon is Öxaráfoss, a small 20-metre waterfall. The canyon can be viewed from above from the main viewpoint at the visitor’s center, to get a complete overview of the landscape.  

There are also several hikes around the lake and across the lava fields. 

Road 36 from Reykjavik will take you to the main visitors center. This has a large paid parking area and an interesting museum. From here there are amazing views across the landscape and Lake Thingvallavatn. 

You can either walk from the visitors center down to Almannagja and the lakeside area around Silfra or drive around to the smaller parking areas close to the church and starting point for the Silfra dives. All the parking is paid for but tickets can be used in any car park.

Silfra Snorkeling Pond

Explored by Cristina at Honest Travel

As some of you may know, Iceland is unlike anywhere else in the world. You’ll find ice and fire everywhere as you travel around Iceland by car, you and you’ll be in awe of the landscape and topography for the whole length of your roadtrip in Iceland.

But what will amaze you the most is  snorkeling at the Silfra Fissure . A truly unique experience you can only try here, snorkeling (or diving) between tectonic plates is out of this world gorgeous.

Part of the Thingvellir National Park, Silfra is the place where you can see between the two continents of Europe and North America. The water is one of the clearest in the world, the visibility being mostly limited by your ability to see far, and not by the water clarity.

The area is protected so you cannot really do this unless you use a guided tour. We recommend this highly rated Fissure Snorkeling Tour with Underwater Photos , where you’ll be provided with a high-quality dry suit and guided by a qualified and experienced instructor.

Now, you must be wondering how cold it is. Well, it’s about 2 degrees Celcius all year round, which makes it a bit chilly, but you’ll have such an adrenaline rush that you won’t feel a thing. Plus, you’ll have a dry suit and great guidance from your instructor so you’ll be completely safe at all times.

Part of the safety features depends on you though. You have to be aware that plenty of medical conditions can render you unable to perform this activity, and you should ask the organizer if you’re not sure.

Plenty of people will tell you Iceland is one of a kind, and all of them are completely right. But if you’re going to do just one thing on your Iceland road trip, make it snorkeling at Silfra, you won’t regret it!

Reykjadalur Hot Spring Thermal River

Explored by Jessica at Uprooted Traveler

If you’re making your way around the Ring Road, one of the best things to explore in southwestern Iceland is Reykjadalur Hot Springs . You can easily visit Reykjadalar hot springs on shorter road trips in Iceland, because of its proximity to Reykjavik and the traditional Golden Circle attractions.

The springs are located in a river tucked away amongst the vibrant green mountains of the Reykjadalur valley. To get to the springs, you’ll need to drive to the small town of Hveragerði (about 45 minutes southwest of Reykjavik) and navigate to the Reykjadalur Café, which both serves as a great spot to grab a coffee and a handy point to plug into your GPS to get to the trailhead.

From here, you’ll hike 1.2 miles one-way up the rolling green hills, passing huge cascading waterfalls, boiling mudpots, and grizzly-looking Icelandic sheep.

While the trail itself is on the easier side, it can get a bit dicey in the wintertime, as it’s often covered with ice and snow and has plenty of steep drop-offs. If you attempt it during this timeframe, don’t forget to bring some microspikes and trekking poles.

Regardless of what time of year you visit, the trail itself is stunningly beautiful, and perhaps arguably just as amazing as the thermal river itself.

You’ll know you’ll have reached the hot springs when you see a wooden boardwalk with dividers so that soakers may have a bit of privacy to change into their swimsuits. That being said, it’s worth noting that it’s not uncommon to see other bathers enjoying the spring here in the nude.

Regardless of your swimsuit attire, you’ll be able to find a spot in the river that’s just the right temperature. The further upstream you go, the hotter the water will be. Once you find a spot that’s just right, relax and enjoy the steamy water and the breathtaking views around you as you experience first-hand Iceland’s famed geothermal features.

RELATED POST: South Coast Iceland: 18 of the Best Things to Do & See

Kerid Crater Lake

Kerið is a volcanic crater lake in the Grímsnes area of South Iceland, where the landscape is made up of barren and stark lava fields, illustrating the volcanism of the region.

The crater lake is approximately three thousand years old, making it roughly half the age of most volcanic calderas found in Iceland. This is why Kerid’s slopes are red in color, rather than the usual volcanic black – the iron deposits are, geologically speaking, much younger.

Kerid Lake is approximately 55 meters deep and 270 meters in circumference. It is possible to take a path right to the crater’s edge, from where the contrast between the vivid red walls and mineral-dyed aquamarine waters is most dramatic.

The descent down is relatively easy, pick your path carefully and avoid loose shale where possible. You may be thinking it looks a great place to swim, but Iceland’s rules state that you can only swim in an area that does not explicitly forbid the activity. At Kerid Lake there is a sign that explicitly forbids swimming, so you won’t be needing your swimmers for this attraction!

Scientists believe that Kerið Crater Lake was once a cone-shaped volcano. Upon eruption, it is widely believed that the volcano depleted its magma reserve, causing the foundation to fall in upon itself and result in the formation it has today.

If you’re visiting the lake in winter, you may need a 4×4 vehicle, especially if it has been wet. There is a small fee to pay as the crater is on privately owned land which needs to be preserved and maintained.

Geysers of Haukadalur Valley

Explored by Cosette from KarsTravels

The Haukadalur geysir geothermal area on the Golden Circle route is a valley with over 40 hot springs, fumaroles, mud pots and geysers.

The two most famous and largest geysers are Geysir and Strokkur. Strokkur is very active, erupting every four to ten minutes, up to heights of 30 meters. It is truly spectacular.

Geysir doesn’t erupt that often anymore but is the oldest European geyser. It’s the original geyser, which gave its name to the others.

The geyser area is in South Western Iceland on the Golden Circle route and is a perfect stop if you have  2 days in Iceland . It’s a spectacular area to wander around, with the rotten egg smell omnipresent, and the eruptions, bubbling mud and hot water, steam rising, and the vivid coloration of the surrounding hills, make it a sight to see.

Haukadalur means valley of hawks and was first mentioned around 1294. The local hot springs and geysers were activated by an earthquake at that time. Since the 18th century, the valley has been a popular tourist attraction.

There’s a parking area and visitor center across from the geyser area. Parking and entrance to the valley are free of charge. It’s open 24 hours a day and all year long.

There are signs warning you to stay on the marked path, and that the water you see is boiling. 

Gullfoss Falls

Explored by Melissa at Parenthood and Passports

Gullfoss is one of the most iconic landmarks in Iceland, and a popular stop along the Golden Circle. Because of its proximity to Reykjavik and other attractions, this powerful waterfall is one of the most visited natural wonders in Iceland. You can easily see Gullfoss on an Iceland road trip, even if you only have three or four days in Iceland . 

Gullfoss Waterfall is known for its tiered cascades that make a sharp, 90-degree turn before plunging 21 meters into the Hvita River Canyon below. 

Because this is a stop on many of Iceland’s guided bus tours of the Golden Circle and southern coast, there is a large, accessible parking area, as well as a gift shop and cafeteria where you can grab a bite to eat. If you are doing a self-drive in Iceland, Gullfoss, as with many of Iceland’s natural features, is free to visit.

From the parking area, follow the narrow path toward the canyon and Gullfoss will majestically come into view. If you choose to continue, the pathway will take you all the way to the edge of the mighty waterfall.

Although portions of the path are not handicapped accessible, the path itself is not challenging. You can get so close to Gullfoss, you’ll actually feel the mist from the water hit you in the face, so you might want to bring a rain jacket!

Although it is now one of Iceland’s most adored wonders, Gullfoss was once at risk of being dammed up. In the early 1900s, developers wanted to dam the river and use the power generated from the waterfall to fuel a hydroelectric plant.

Fortunately for hundreds of thousands of admirers who visit each year, that attempt failed and Gullfoss is now a protected landmark and one of the top must-sees in Iceland.

Landmannalaugar

Explored by Theo from Waffles and Lamingtons

Exploring the highlands is where you experience the wild side of Iceland. So if you’re looking for a true adventure, hiking in Landmannalaugar and exploring the less traveled areas is one of the best things to do on an Iceland road trip. 

Nestled deep in the Fjallabak Nature Reserve of the Highlands, Landmannalaugar is arguably known for some of the best hiking in Iceland.

While the colorful sulphuric landscapes are what Landmannalaugar is famous for, the area is also home to fields of lava, some of the best views in Iceland, and perhaps best of all, hot springs to recover in after a long day of hiking. 

Being part of the highlands, Landmannalaugar is only accessible during the summer months from late June to early September, though this is not set in stone and does depend on the season and weather at the time.

Getting to Landmannalaugar requires the use of a 4×4 as the access roads cover the infamous Icelandic F-roads, which are mountain or highland roads. Fortunately for travelers, Landmannalaugar is accessible by bus, car, and tour.

We recommend this well-rated Landmannalaugar guided hiking experience , where you’ll get the chance to hike through Laugahraun, Vondugil Canyon, and Brennisteinsalda with an experienced guide, before relaxing in a natural hot spring.

Seljalandsfoss

Explored by Mayuri at To Some Place New

Seljalandsfoss is a waterfall located in the south of Iceland. It is 60 meters high and drops over the cliffs of the Seljaland Farm. 

If you’re on an Iceland road trip, a visit to Seljalandsfoss is a must. The waterfall is located about 130 kilometers south of Reykjavik, on the road to Vik. It’s easy to find – just look for the signs that say Seljalandsfoss!

Seljalandsfoss is one of the most accessible Iceland waterfalls near Reyjkavik . Visitors can walk right up to it. The waterfall is also very beautiful, with its wide curtain of water dropping over the cliffs of the farm. It is no wonder that it is one of the most popular waterfalls in Iceland.

In addition to its natural beauty, Seljalandsfoss is also associated with some historical events. The waterfall was mentioned in the Saga of Burnt Njal , a medieval Icelandic saga. The first written reference to the waterfall dates back to 1385. Seljaland Farm was also mentioned in the saga, which probably gave the waterfall its name.

The waterfall is open year-round, but it’s best to visit in the summertime when the weather is nice. It is completely free to access the site of the waterfall and view it.

Parking costs 800 ISK. Be sure to bring your camera – Seljalandsfoss is a great place to take pictures!

Skogafoss Waterfall

Explored by David at The World Travel Guy

Skogafoss is one of the best  Iceland waterfalls  in the southern part of the country. It’s relatively easy to visit from Reykjavik, since the distance between the two places is only about 150 kilometers (a two hour drive), which is partly why it has become such a hit with international and local tourists. It’s a very popular place to stop on the Ring Road in conjunction with other nearby famous sights like Seljalandsfoss.

The name of this one is pronounced ‘skoa-foss’ and its waterfall is about 60 meters tall and 25 meters wide, making it one of the bigger waterfalls in Iceland. It’s a beautiful waterfall, but also very powerful with a lot of mist, so take care of your camera and other electronics near the falls or they will get soaked.

You can reach the Skogafoss waterfall with any vehicle, so a 4×4 is not required. The main waterfall can also be reached without any hiking, and it’s free to visit. There’s a stairway up to the top of the waterfall so you can see it from above, although this requires a bit of walking and may be slippery in the winter months.

There are basic campgrounds at the waterfall, along with several hotels or guesthouses, a few small restaurants, and plenty of parking space for cars. Also worth seeing is the nearby Skogar Museum, and Kvernufoss, a nice hidden waterfall in a green canyon just a short distance from Skogafoss.

Sólheimasandur Plane Wreck

Explored by Pamela at Directionally Challenged Traveler

A hidden gem in Iceland located right off the Ring Road is the Sólheimasandur plane crash. A little over two hours southeast of Reykjavik, and near one of the most beautiful  waterfalls in Iceland , Skogafoss – it’s a great place to visit on a road trip of Iceland.

In November 1973, the pilot of the American Navy jet was fighting strong winds and low temperatures. The actual cause of the crash is still unknown, but the most common theory is that the plane ran out of fuel during a storm.

The pilots were attempting to land in the water rather than in the mountains of Iceland and found this black beach. The crew was rescued after 24 hours. The US Navy did not recover the plane itself because it would take too long.

The crash site is now a tourist attraction because it is unique to see an abandoned plane on a beach. 

It’s important to note that you won’t see the plane from the Ring Road. It’s actually located 3.5km from the road, so be sure to bring your comfortable shoes.

To reach it you must walk along the river Jökulhlaup, cross the bridge over the river Jökulfjöll and follow the signs. The path is covered by snow in winter. The walk to the plane is itself an interesting experience because it feels like you’re on another planet. 

The plane is free to visit. Climbing on the plane is forbidden, however, you can get a glimpse into the plane from the side.

The unique experience of the plane and the journey to get to it make the Sólheimasandur plane crash a must-visit on any Iceland road trip.

Reynisfjara Black Sand Beach

Explored by Katie at Two Wandering Soles

Not only is Reynisfjara the most famous  black sand beach in Iceland , it is one of the most iconic black sand beaches in the world. Due to its proximity to the Ring Road, this beach is one of the most popular attractions in Iceland and is a must-see on your Iceland road trip. 

Reynisfjara is located just ten minute drive from the small south coast seaside town of Vik and is easily accessed from the parking lot. It’s worth noting that the restroom facilities at this beach cost money, so you may want to stop elsewhere before you arrive at this beach. Otherwise, it is free to park and visit this wonder of Iceland. 

You can dip your fingers in the icy waters of the Atlantic, but be cautious, as “sneaker waves” can pop up at any point and be very dangerous to those standing at the ocean’s edge.

Wander along the black sand shore and take in the unique rock formations out at sea as well as the basalt columns that line this beach. If you’re visiting during the summer months, you may get lucky and spot puffins, as this is a popular nesting spot for these seabirds. 

After your visit, be sure to stop at the nearby cliffs of Dyrholaey for epic views and more puffin spotting!

See the Northern Lights

There are a few good spots on the south coast of Iceland where you can see the aurora borealis, without needing to take a Northern lights tour. The Northern lights season is between September to April, but you’ll have a better chance between October to March.

If you’re staying in Vik, then Reynisfjara beach is one of the best places to see the Northern lights in Iceland. There is zero light pollution and you’ll get dramatic views and the sound of the waves lapping the beach as the night sky puts on a spectacular show.

Further along the coast is the Jökulsárlón Glacial Lagoon, which you’ll find a bit later on this Iceland bucket list. The unique landscape of Jökulsárlón makes it another great Northern lights location. The crystal clear ice boulders on the black sand beach pick up the colourful glow of the aurora borealis and create a kaleidoscopic effect.

How about a touch of luxury whilst waiting for the light show? Head for Seljavallalaug hot springs, just of the Ring Road between Seljalandsfoss and Skogafoss waterfalls. There is a naturally heated outdoor swimming pool which is is free and open 24 hours a day. It’s also one of the oldest pools in Iceland, and a perfect spot to take in the night sky.

But, if you prefer to take a Norther Lights tour in Iceland, you can find a wide choice with our preferred (and tried and tested!) Iceland activity provider, Get Your Guide .

Fjaðrárgljúfur Canyon

Fjaðrárgljúfur Canyon in South Iceland is a canyon with a river bed that snakes between the surrounding high canyon walls. Located right off the main Ring Road, you can stop and descend around 100 meters to hike along the canyon floor.

Despite being close to the main road, Fjaðrárgljúfur Canyon is a little off-the-beaten-path and only came to prominence a few years ago after Justin Bieber filmed the music video there for his single I’ll Show You , in 2015. The video has since been viewed nearly 450 million times, so the beautiful spot has become a little more popular!

There is an easy 2km hike along the top of the canyon, on an easy-to-follow path, with the odd detour for viewpoints. Be careful in the winter here if it’s been snowing or is icy as the terrain can become slippery.

You can also hike along the beautiful floor of the canyon, where the mossy floor is a verdant green and the waterfalls are crystal clear. You might want some waterproof gear for this, as the river waters are glacial year round. If you hike here in shoulder season, you might even get the place to yourself.

From the Ring Road look for signs for Lakagígar and continue on the gravel road for about 2km until you reach the parking area for the canyon. The road is gravel, but you don’t need a 4X4, just take it slow if you are in a smaller vehicle.

Vatnajökull National Park

Explored by Paulina at UK Everyday

If you are planning a road trip around Iceland, don’t miss the opportunity to visit one of the country’s most beautiful National Parks. Vatnajökull National Park encompasses 4,807 km² and is home to the beautiful Svartifoss Waterfall in the Skaftafell wilderness area.

Exploring the ice caves in Vatnajökull National Park is a once-in-a-lifetime experience. The best time to visit Iceland is in winter, because of these types of seasonal activities. Between November and March, you can see the incredible blue colors of the natural caves.

You can get to Vatnajökull National Park with a small car as the roads are good and the parking area is close to the main route. However, driving in winter can be unpredictable in Iceland, especially when it starts to snow, so take care if this is the case.

The car park for Skaftafell and Svartifoss is less than a five minute drive from the main road, so it is really easy to find. It looks like you will be driving in the middle of nowhere, but once you get there, you will see people getting ready to explore one of the most beautiful places in the world.

You will need to book a guided tour to visit the ice caves and glacier and we strongly recommend doing this in advance due to the high popularity of these tours. Our recommended adventure tour is this popular Skaftafell Ice Cave Tour and Glacier Hike , where you’ll be able to discover natural blue ice caves and walk on Vatnajökull, Europe’s largest glacier.

Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon

The Jokulsarlon Glacier Lagoon is said to be one of the greatest wonders of nature in Iceland. This lagoon is a fairly recent formation, the result of a warming global climate. The surface of the lagoon is at sea level and sea water flows into the lagoon at high tide.

Huge blocks of ice regularly break off the glacier, Breiðamerkurjökull, and large icebergs float on the lagoon. The lagoon is not very wide but it is up to 250 meters deep which makes it the deepest lake in Iceland.

The dramatic Black Diamond Beach at Jökulsárlón is almost as famous as the Ice Lagoon itself and offers the incredible sight of a procession of blue and white icebergs gliding silently along as they go to meet their final destiny in the wild waves of the Atlantic Ocean.

You can take an amphibious boat tour, or zodiac tour, to explore the icebergs of the lagoon, getting so close to the ‘bergs that you can almost touch them, or take an exciting Super Jeep tour of the nearby crystal blue ice caves and actually stand inside a glacier!

Dettifoss Waterfall & Selfoss Waterfall

Dettifoss is a spectacular waterfall, located in the otherworldy landscapes of the enormous Vatnajökull National Park, and fed by the powerful glacier river Jökulsá á Fjöllum. At 100 meters wide and with a 44-metre drop into Jökulsárgljúfur Canyon, the waterfall has the second most powerful water flow in Europe.

Just a few kilometers from Dettifoss is Selfoss, a smaller but equally beautiful waterfall. It can be reached on foot from Dettifoss, hiking on a stony but accessible path. The reward for your walk is a beautiful waterfall that flows down dramatic basalt columns.

Due to its remote location and the poor condition of the roads that lead to them, some people choose not to include Dettifoss and Selfoss on their route through Iceland, but we think it’s worth the poor road to see the spectacle of the thundering water cascading into the canyon.

It will take around 25 minutes to Dettifoss Parking (West) along Route 862, from the Ring Road. The road is semi-paved and usually open from June to the end of September.

Route 844 is usually open from the end of May to the beginning of October, and you need an off-road vehicle for this route. It will take around 40 minutes to get to Dettifiss Parking (East) from the Ring Road.

Mývatn Nature Baths

Explored by Karen at Outdoor Adventure Sampler

The Mývatn Nature Baths, in Northeast Iceland near Lake Mývatn, are often considered the little sister of the Blue Lagoon. This gorgeous geothermal hot spring is just one of the many amazing  outdoor adventures in Iceland . Mývatn, fortunately, is right off the Ring Road so it makes the perfect stop on your Icelandic road trip.

The geothermal lagoon of Mývatn Nature Baths is man-made and constructed with natural hot water piped in. The milky blue color of the lagoon draws visitors from across the globe. Part of the lagoon is an infinity pool with a gorgeous view of the whole Mývatn Lake valley.

For an incredible experience, visit the nature baths at night when northern lights are forecast. There’s nothing quite like relaxing in the warm water while the night sky is shimmering in sheets of color.

The hot water is full of minerals that are beneficial to your skin and body. Silica, in particular, not only makes the turquoise water blue when the sun reflects, but it also has healing properties for damaged skin. Water temperatures range from 36 to 40 degrees Celsius.

A swim-up bar has alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks to enjoy while you bathe in the hot spring. You can also visit the two geothermically heated steam rooms that overlook the baths. A restaurant and gift shop are on-site.

Mývatn Nature Baths are open year-round. We highly recommend booking tickets online in advance.

Grjótagjá Cave

Explored by Stephanie at The Unknown Enthusiast

Grjótagjá is an otherworldly cave/hot spring in north Iceland. It’s about a 45 minute drive south of the city of Husavik and a great addition to any Iceland Ring Road itinerary .

To enter the cave, you have to climb down and over some big rocks. There isn’t a path to speak of, it’s just scrambling over the rocks. Most of the cave is filled with hot springs, which are a beautiful, strikingly blue color. The water is actually quite hot at 44 degrees Celcius, so it is not allowed to enter the water. 

The cave itself is pretty small and most of the space is taken up with the hot springs, so you really just can sit on the boulders and rocks next to the water. There are two entrances that lead to the same cavern opening, so you can get a couple of different viewpoints. 

You can park right outside the cave and entrance is free. Grjótagjá is located on highway 860, just right off Route 1, and is not far from the Myvatn Nature Baths, the Hverir mud pots, and the Hverfjall volcano. 

The combination of a boulder-filled cave plus a glistening hot pool makes Grjótagjá feel like it came right out of a fantasy – and in fact, it was one of the many spots in Iceland used as a filming location for Games of Thrones. 

It’s a relatively quick stop since it’s fairly small and you can’t get in the water, but is still worth the stop if you are in the area.

Dimmuborgir Lava Field

Explored by Anwar at Beyond My Door

Located close to Lake Myvatn, Dimmuborgir showcases a field of unique lava structures. Wandering through the structures, you feel as if you are walking through a cityscape of old lava. The weirdly shaped pinnacles fit aptly with its name Dimmuborgir, meaning Dark Castles. 

The area was formed over 2,000 years ago when lava flowed over the lake causing these amazing pillars to be formed. The formations have many connections with Iceland folklore and it is said that this area connects the earth with hell below. This is where Satan supposedly built his catacombs of hell. 

The area has become more popular after the show Game of Thrones where it served as a backdrop for Mance Raider’s camp.

There is parking and well-marked trails throughout the area. Be sure to stay on the trails and avoid damaging the unique structures. Dimmuborgir is also located close to the Hverfjall cinder cone and makes a great stop in combination with visiting there.

The location is free to visit and easily accessible with any type of vehicle. The road to Dimmuborgir is located off the main 848 road around the Lake Myvatn.

Whale Watching from Husavik

There is no doubt that one of the best things to do in Iceland is to go whale watching. The country is home to dozens of species, including Minke, Humpback, Blue, and Orca whales, making it a top spot for whale-watching enthusiasts.

In all, there are 24 species of whale and dolphin in Iceland’s oceans and rare sightings, mainly in the north, including the beautiful white Beluga whale and the mythical Narwhal.

The best time for a whale watching tour in Iceland is from April to late September/early October, with June, July, and August recognized as the peak season when the whales are at their most active because of the long summer daylight hours which boost the krill and fish population – dinner for the whales!

Perched on the edge of Skjálfandi Bay in northeastern Iceland, the fishing town of Húsavík is recognized as one of the best whale-watching locations in the world. You can also take whale watching tours from Akureyri and Reykjavík if planning a trip from there fits your itinerary better.

This highly recommended Big Whale Safari & Puffin Island Tour from Husavik cruises a large area of Skjálfandi Bay in a modern RIB speedboat, increasing the chances of observing big whales in their natural environment. You’ll be provided with warm and weatherproof overalls and you’ll learn about Iceland’s Puffins, nature, and wildlife from an expert guide.

Hallmundarhraun Lava Field

Explored by Kenny at Knycx Journeying 

Iceland offers some of the most out-of-this-world, extraterrestrial landscapes that are like no other place on this planet. While the Golden Circle is one of the most popular spots to visit among tourists, consider visiting somewhere offbeat and head to Hallmundarhraun Lava Fields in the highlands  on your Icelandic road trip. 

The landscape of Iceland is unique because it’s covered by lava. Miles and miles of lava cover the island without sight of tall trees and bushes – people call it a lunarscape for a good reason.

To truly appreciate what Iceland’s nature has to offer, Hallmundarhraun is a sparsely inhabited plateau on Iceland’s inland. It’s 400 to 500 meters above sea level. It’s a volcanic desert, where no plant would grow due to the fast infiltration of rain or snow into the ground. 

The Hallmundarhraun lava field was formed in a giant eruption close to the Langjökull glacier around the year 930 CE. Langjökull is the second largest glacier in the country and it’s possible to get close to the edge of the glacier, or take a tour and explore the glacier on a snowmobile.

For those who have more time on the glacier, book this exciting Langjökulll Glacier Ice Cave Tour from nearby Húsafell. Hop on a modified glacier vehicle for a ride to the man-made ice cave, and check out the ice that’s been in the tunnel since the ice age. You’ll be provided with a snowsuit, protective overshoes, and crampons, and your experienced guide will ensure your safety.

Husafell is accessible by two-wheeled drive vehicles, but if you want to explore the Hallmundarhraun Lava Field, you will need to be in a 4×4 jeep to navigate the rocky and uneven surface in the breathtaking highlands.

Hornstrandir Nature Reserve

The most northerly destination in Iceland, Hornstrandir is perfect for those who love to get away from it all. With over 580 square kilometers of tundra, cliffs, flowering fields, and the Drangajökull Glacier, this is a remote and beautiful region, and visiting is one of the most unique things to do in Iceland.

Devoid of human residents since the 1950s, and grazing animals for several decades, there is an abundance of plant life here, with over 260 different species of flowering plants and ferns, some of which are unique only to the reserve.

Hornstrandir is also home to Iceland’s only native mammal, the elusive Arctic Fox, which preys upon the birds nesting along Hornstrandir’s towering cliffs. No hunting is allowed in the area, so foxes are free to live without the threat of human interaction.

Bird enthusiasts can spot many nesting species, notably arctic terns, puffins, and black guillemots. The region has two of the largest bird cliffs in Europe, overshadowing the coastal paradise of Hornvík Bay.

Hornstrandir Nature Reserve is not for the faint-hearted. It is not possible to drive to the nature reserve, and getting there requires time and effort – and a boat! You can find out all your need to know here .

Snaefellsnes Peninsula

Explored by Victoria at Iceland Trippers

One place that should be on every Iceland roadtrip itinerary should be the Snæfellsnes Peninsula!

Now, this isn’t just one single stop such as Skogafoss or the Blue Lagoon. Instead, there are so many  things to do on the Snaefellsnes Peninsula  that you should make time to at least spend one full day here! You can even spend the night and plan two days here if you have enough time.

The Snaefellsnes Peninsula is located in West Iceland and is off the Ring Road, on, well, a peninsula! One of the most famous sites to see here is Kirkjufell Mountain. This is a great place to visit and take photos and there is a waterfall as well. It is easy to find and is one of the more iconic sites in Iceland.

The tip of the peninsula is also home to Snæfellsjökull National Park, home to beautiful and diverse landscapes, spectacular cliff formations at Arnarstapi, black and golden beaches, mossy lava fields, and lava tube caves! Head to the Visitor Center at Malarrif to find out more. 

Another great stop is Budir Black Church which is one of the few black-painted churches in Iceland. The contrast with the landscape makes this one a stunning stop! If you have the time, Snaefellsnes Peninsula should top your Iceland bucket list!!!

You do not need a 4×4 to visit Snaefellsnes Peninsula and it can be visited in all seasons.

Glymur Waterfall

Second only to the recently formed Morsarfoss Waterfall, a product of melting glaciers in the Skaftafell National Park, Glymur Waterfall stands 198 meters tall, 30m shy of Morsarfoss. But Morsarfoss is almost impossible to reach, requiring that you hike across a moving glacier, or over 3,000m to the nearest peak for a glimpse.

Glymur, by contrast, is a moderate hike across incredible landscapes, through unspoiled nature, which will take around 3-4 hours, depending on your fitness level. This hike should only be undertaken between June and September.

You can do this as a linear hike, or a circular hike, taking one route up and another down, which makes the experience a little more interesting. You will need to have a reasonable level of fitness and good balance, as you will be crossing rivers.

The route is marked by cairns with yellow markers as well as signs and is easy to follow. There are some smaller trails that can lead you away from the waterfall route, so do keep your eye on markers and signs to ensure you stay on track.

You will need sturdy walking boots or approach shoes, walking poles, a waterproof jacket and thermal layers in case of unpredictable weather, and food and water.

Iceland Road Trip Essentials

Here are the websites and services we personally use and recommend for traveling in Norway.

• Search for affordable flights to Norway with Skyscanner
• Search for availability and book hotels and accommodation in Iceland with Booking.co
• Book the cheapest and most reliable hire cars in Iceland with Rentalcars.com
• Find and hire your perfect motorhome or campervan with Motorhome Republic
• Get highly rated, reliable, and trustworthy travel insurance with True Traveller
• Check if you need a visa and arrange your documents with Visagov

Are you looking for more incredible road trips? Check out these top posts…

Stelvio Pass: The Best Mountain Road in Italy?

Spain Road Trip: 8 Amazing Routes for an Epic Trip

Croatia Road Trips: Five Incredible Routes

Dolomites Road Trip: Explore the Best of Northern Italy

Great Dolomites Road: Absolutely Everything You Need to Know!

Route des Grandes Alpes: An Epic French Road Trip

Love it pin it.

Deals of the Week   Mad for the Med   Up to 50% OFF

Iceland Group Overland Tour

• Partially Guided

Places You’ll See

• Introduction
• Day 1 REYKJAVÍK
• Day 2 SNÆFELLSNES PENINSULA - KIRKJUFELL - BERSERKJAHRAUN LAVA FIELD - SHARK MUSEUM
• Day 3 WESTFJORDS - LÁTRABJARG SEA CLIFFS - PUFFINS
• Day 4 WESTFJORDS - SHIPWRECK - DYNJANDI WATERFALL
• Day 5 WESTFJORDS SCENIC DRIVE - HÓLMAVÍK WITCHCRAFT MUSEUM - THERMAL POOLS
• Day 6 TRÖLLASKAGI PENINSULA - SCENIC ROUTE 76 - AKUREYRI
• Day 7 GOÐAFOSS WATERFALL - LAKE MÝVATN - HVERFJALL VOLCANO CRATER
• Day 8 LAKE MÝVATN - CENTRAL HIGHLANDS - ASKJA CALDERA
• Day 9 HVERIR GEOTHERMAL AREA - KRAFLA CALDERA - HÚSAVÍK WHALE WATCHING
• Day 10 DETTIFOSS & SELFOSS WATERFALLS - SEYÐISFJÖRÐUR
• Day 11 GUFUFOSS - VESTRAHORN - HÖFN
• Day 12 JÖKULSÁRLÓN GLACIER LAGOON - HOFSKIRKJA - SKAFTAFELL NATIONAL PARK
• Day 13 SKAFTAFELL NATIONAL PARK - HIKING - GLACIER TREKKING
• Day 14 VÍK - REYNISFJARA BLACK SAND BEACH - SKÓGAFOSS WATERFALL - GEYSIR
• Day 15 GULLFOSS WATERFALL - GEYSIR - ÞINGVELLIR NATIONAL PARK - GRINDAVÍK
• Day 16 FAGRADALSFJALL ACTIVE VOLCANO - REYKJAVÍK

Want to read it later?

Download this tour’s PDF brochure and start tour planning offline

What's Included

• Accommodation
• Additional Services

Where You'll Stay

Customer photos.

Operated by Madventure

Affordable group travel & epic overland tours suitable for all ages, gap year tours & career breaks

Customer Reviews

• Overall Rating Excellent 5.0
• Itinerary Excellent 5.0
• Guide Excellent 5.0
• Transport Excellent 4.8
• Accommodation Excellent 4.4
• Food Excellent 4.8
• Tour Operator Madventure 4.6
• Most Recent
• Most Popular
• Highest First
• Lowest First

• M Mel · 3rd October 2023 We joined the Madventure Iceland tour that started in July 2023. We were a group of 24 passengers, many of whom had considerable experience of travelling on over landing tours. I think I can say on behalf of the group that we were all impressed at... Show more Trip date: July 2023
• JW Janet · 27th September 2023 Well organised (even the weather was perfect!) and great fun. Trip date: July 2023
• PC Penny · 26th September 2023 Very well organised and amazing trip. Trip date: August 2023

• CH Caroline · 25th September 2023 As the old Nike ad: if you are pondering whether you should or shouldn't go on this trip, just do it. You will not regret it. Iceland is an amazing and fascinating place. Madventure has put together an itinerary that will satisfy even the most... Show more Trip date: July 2023
• MM Marco · 18th September 2023 Strongly recommend traveling Iceland with Madventure. It was an unforgettable experience. I did a 2 week Overland tour in 2023. Iceland is a unique and spectacular country with breathtaking scenery but what really made the tour special were our tour... Show more Trip date: July 2023

Dates & Availability

Pay-by-instalments

Take advantage of our 0% interest instalment plan on selected departures. Learn More

• Upcoming departures
• Get Instant Confirmation Saturday 27 Jul, 2024 Sunday 11 Aug, 2024 English In a private room €3,412 Confirm Dates

Frequently Asked Questions

We are there for you! If you have any questions about this tour, then please don't hesitate to contact us 24/7 and we will get back to you latest within 2 hours!

Got a question about this tour?

Reach out to our travel experts.

Good to Know

• Currency kr Iceland Krona Iceland

As a traveller from USA, Canada, England, Australia, New Zealand, South Africa you will need an adaptor for types C, E, F.

• Unfortunately we cannot offer you a visa application service. Whether you need a visa or not depends on your nationality and where you wish to travel. Assuming your home country does not have a visa agreement with the country you're planning to visit, you will need to apply for a visa in advance of your scheduled departure.
• Here is an indication for which countries you might need a visa. Please contact the local embassy for help applying for visas to these places.
• For any tour departing before 25th July 2024 a full payment is necessary. For tours departing after 25th July 2024, a minimum payment of €340 is required to confirm your booking with Madventure. The final payment will be automatically charged to your credit card on the designated due date. The final payment of the remaining balance is required at least 120 days prior to the departure date of your tour. TourRadar never charges you a booking fee and will charge you in the stated currency.
• Some departure dates and prices may vary and Madventure will contact you with any discrepancies before your booking is confirmed.
• The following cards are accepted for "Madventure" tours: Visa, Maestro, Mastercard, American Express or PayPal. TourRadar does NOT charge you an extra fee for using any of these payment methods.
• Insurance Unless otherwise mentioned, TourRadar does not provide travel insurance. We do however recommend purchasing it through our tried and trusted partner, World Travel Nomads .
• Accessibility Some tours are not suitable for mobility-restricted traveller, however, some operators may be able to accommodate special requests. For any enquiries, you can contact our customer support team , who are ready and waiting to help you.
• Sailing in Turkey
• Iceland January 2026 tours
• UK and Great Britain August 2024 tours
• East Africa Partially Guided tours
• 【South Korea】10 Days Scenic South Korea Tour …
• Bali Experience
• Best time to visit Scottish Highlands

Similar Tours

Keep Exploring Iceland

• Iceland Travel Guide | All You Need to Know
• Family Trip to Europe Itineraries (From 1 to 3 Weeks)
• 10 Best Adventure Tour and Travel Companies
• 10 Best Budget Adventure Tours 2024/2025
• Iceland from Reykjavik
• Iceland Active
• 16 days Iceland
• Operators in Europe
• Iceland Group Overland Tour Tours in Iceland
• Active Tours
• Iceland Tours
• Europe Tours
• Group Tours
• Partially Guided Tours
• Iceland tours

The Land of Fire and Ice

This tour is truly the trip of a lifetime to a land where volcanoes, glaciers, vast waterfalls, gigantic gorges, steaming geysers all show nature's awesome power. 

Our two-week tour aims to visit many of these mighty geological feature most of which are only accessible by four wheel drive vehicles.The main part of our journey to Iceland is from Hirtshals in Denmark aboard the MV Norrana. We’ll be sharing the ferry with other overlanders from small off-road campers to large expedition trucks. It's a two day sailing and we arrive early morning in the harbour of Seydisfjordur on the eastern coast. 

After disembarking, we hit the road driving on Highway 1 the perimeter road which circumnavigates Iceland. Howeber, it's not long before we turn off onto the gravel pistes which criss-cross the interior of the island. our first stop is the mighty Hengifoss waterfall, Iceland’s third highest and just a taster of what’s to come. For the first couple of days we’ll skirt the south coast with its huge expanses of black, lava sand beaches and mighty basalt cliffs, home to vast colonies of puffins. 

We’ll visit the Jokulsarlon Ice Lagoon, where powder blue icebergs calve from the glacier and float through the lagoon before tumbling down the river to the ocean. We’ll visit the volcano centre near Eyjafjallajokul which famously erupted in 2010, severely disrupting air travel. 

Continuing along the south coast we’re heading towards the area around Rekjavik and will take a rest day to enable sightseeing in Iceland’s capital city or a visit to the famous Blue Lagoon. Or both! 

From here we begin the first of our journeys into the highlands. Here we'll be driving on tracks where a 4x4 is a real necessity. River crossings abound - some mere watersplashes but some far more tricky where deep swirling water can catch out the unwary or unprepared. Thorough vehicle preparation is essential and wading plugs and raised air intakes are strongly recommended as is underbody protection to guard against submerged obstructions. Rivers are best crossed in the morning as water levels rise as the midday sun melts the snow and ice further upstream. 

It’s possible that some routes may be closed due to weather conditions so our route will remain flexible. The lanscape in the highlands has a harsh beauty and is a reminder of how geologically young this island is with it’s lava fields and other evidence of fairly recent volcanic activity. 

We’ll be staying on serviced campsites during our visit to Iceland. Those near the coast tend to be mid-sized with the possibility of nearby bars and restaurants. In the highlands, accommodation is much simpler but a warm welcome is assured. 

Weather-wise, Iceland sits in the North Atlantic. Whilst we have been blessed with clear blue skies and lots of sunshine on previous trips, things can change quickly so a range of good clothing and camping gear is essential to stay comfortable. 

There's another rest day at Husavik on the north of the island to provide the opportunity for a whale watching trip on a typical Icelandic fishing boat. Or you might prefer just to chill out beside the harbour and check out the local restaurants. Most things, apart from diesel, on Iceland are expensive but not excessively so. It’s worth having a couple of meals out to sample the superb local cuisine.

Iceland is a destination unlike any other and it's dramatic landscapes ensure that this will be an adventure to remember!

Due to the distances involved in this trip it is imperative that your vehicle is well prepared. Whilst it is not an exhaustive inventory, we have provided a kit list as a basic guide.

Vehicle Preparation

Read our  section  on vehicle preparation

Health & Hygiene

A few sensible precautions will save a lot of anxiety should you fall ill abroad. Please review our list of precautions and medical supplies you should take on your expedition.

Terms & Conditions

Please read the Terms & Conditions for this trip before booking.

Other Tours

• The Arctic Circle
• Wessex Wanderer

© Copyright Atlas Overland 2024

Design & Development By Webglu

The 8 most spectacular road trips in Iceland

Mar 4, 2024 • 10 min read

Head out on four wheels to explore Iceland's incredible landscapes © janiecbros / Getty Images

Driving in Iceland is a dreamy experience, and having your own set of wheels offers the freedom to explore the country at your own pace.

Picture the scene: you’re gliding along a road curling around a snowy hillside. On your right, a steep, rocky slope, the top shrouded in fog. On your left, the surf beats against vertical cliffs, with sea birds circling overhead. Before you, the crystal blue waters of yet another fjord stretch out to the horizon. 

There’s no better feeling than heading out and seeing where the road takes you. But, should you require a little more structure to your overland odyssey, we’ve selected eight unforgettable Iceland road trips to get you started.

1. Hit the road on the Blue Diamond tourist route

Best road trip for volcanic activity Keflavík International Airport  –  Keflavík International Airport; 75 – 115km (50 – 70 miles); 1 day

From Keflavík International Airport, the Blue Diamond tourist route loops around the otherworldly lava landscapes of Reykjanes Peninsula , through quiet seaside villages and the wondrous Reykjanes Geopark, recognized as a UNESCO Global Geopark in 2015.

Nowhere else are the borders between the American and Eurasian tectonic plates as visible. All around are signs of geothermal and volcanic activity: the milky blue waters of the  Blue Lagoon steam into the sky, while  Geldingadalir (which erupted in 2021 and again in August 2022, but is now inactive) continues to wow visitors. Check safety alerts before you visit. 

There are many more discoveries to be made on the route, including the windswept shore by Reykjanes lighthouse and Kleifarvatn Lake (home, according to legend, to a wormlike monster the size of a whale), and there are myriad hiking trails.

Planning tip: You can do a round trip in less than a day, but it’s worth staying for a few days to fully explore the region.

2. Take Road 435 as an alternative to the Golden Circle

Best road trip in summer Reykjavík – Reykjavík; approx 225km (140 miles), 1 day

For a different take on the Golden Circle – Iceland’s most popular day tour – try Nesjavallaleið (Road 435), which is open in the summer. It slings through moss-covered lava landscapes and up and down steep hills, with a breathtaking view of Þingvallavatn Lake in the distance. Along the road are quite a few marked hiking trails, beckoning road trippers to temporarily ditch the car and get up close and personal with the stunning landscape.

Puffs of steam are the telltale sign that you’re approaching Nesjavallavirkjum Power Plant and the exclusive ION Adventure Hotel . The road continues along placid lakes, including Úlfljótsvatn with a lonely church on its banks. You drive through a summer house region – where city dwellers go for weekend breaks – and then onto the main road past the perfectly circular Kerið crater lake, one of the obligatory Golden Circle stops.

After gawking at Gullfoss waterfall and spying Geysir (from which all other geysers take their name), you can drive back via Þingvellir National Park with a quick visit to the curious cave houses of Laugarvatnshellar.

Local tip: Bookworms should also consider making a stop at Gljúfrasteinn Laxness Museum in Mosfellsdalur. The museum is the former home of prominent Icelandic writer Halldór Laxness, who won the Nobel Prize for Literature in 1955.

3. Drive through the remote East Fjords

Best road trip to explore Iceland's maritime heritage Egilsstaðir – Egilsstaðir; approx 820km (510 miles), 5 days

Set up camp in Egilsstaðir and you’ll be in prime position to uncover the magical East Fjords. First, visit the village of Vopnafjörður, home to Selárlaug, a swimming pool on the banks of a salmon-filled river, which is also popular for fishing. In summer, you could cross the spectacular mountain pass Hellisheiði eystri (Road 917) to get here – but with its narrow and steep gravel road, it’s not for the faint-hearted.

Regardless, take the easy way back (Road 85 and Road 1) to Borgarfjörður eystri, and recharge at the village of Bakkagerði with a hotel and spa, puffin-watching house and popular music festival Bræðslan, held in July. It’s also a good base for hiking in the stunning surroundings, with the trek to Stórurð, a turquoise lake enclaved by massive boulders, a particularly popular route.

You must return to Egilsstaðir before moving on to the next fjords on the route: Eskifjörður and Neskaupstaður. Here, the maritime heritage of this region is honored in elegantly renovated historic houses: Randulfssjóhús in Eskifjörður and Beituskúrinn in Neskaupstaður, both of which now function as excellent, atmospheric restaurants. Drive back through Fáskrúðsfjörður to Stöðvarfjörður, where Petra’s Stone Collection museum amazes, showcasing the sheer variety of minerals that can be found in the mountains in the country’s east. From here, it’s a straight run back to Egilsstaðir for the last time – remember to watch out for reindeer!

4. See the Westfjords by road and ferry

Best scenic road trip Reykjavík – Reykjavík; approx 765km (475 miles)

On the way to the Westfjord from Reykjavík , you’ll drive through the rural region of Dalir. Here, dairy farm Erpsstaðir makes for a great first pitstop on the journey, where you can learn about traditional farming life and sample the homemade cheeses and other treats. There are also a number of historical sites nearby, including Eiríksstaðir, a living museum about life in the Viking era, and Guðrúnarlaug , the replica of the pool where the beautiful heroine of Laxdæla saga (one of the famous medieval Icelandic sagas) used to bathe.

Leaving Dalir in the rearview mirror, the first Westfjordian town you’ll reach is Reykhólar, home to Sjávarböðin, a spa specializing in seaweed baths (said to have all manner of healing properties). From here, the drive along the peninsula’s southern coast on steep gravel roads is both awe-inspiring and borderline scary, but your reward is a stroll on red-sand beach Rauðasandur and the view from Látrabjarg, Iceland’s westernmost point. Látrabjarg is also a haven for birdlife, with thousands of seabirds, including puffins, razorbills and guillemots, nesting in the cliffs.

You can take the ferry from Brjánslækur back, via Flatey , an idyllic island that seems to be frozen in time. It used to be the bustling center of the Breiðafjörður islands, but today, only seven people live there year-round. From here, the ferry takes you onwards to Stykkishólmur on Snæfellsnes , entering via a beautiful harbor overlooked by a distant lighthouse. It’s a view that might tempt you to stay a while.

Local tip:  If you have time to explore Stykkishólmur, check out the Library of Water , a modern art museum, and sample the locally sourced seafood on offer at Sjávarpakkhúsið .

5. Cruise around the otherworldly Snæfellsnes Peninsula

Best road trip for varied landscapes Start/end – Reykjavík; approx 440km (275 miles)

In clear weather, you can see the alluring ice cap Snæfellsjökull from Reykjavík. The drive there is an adventure with ever-changing landscapes. You’ll find sand and pebble beaches, volcanoes, a glacier and rhyolite mountains, lava fields and grassy terrain, caves, bird-filled cliffs and waterfalls.

The peninsula’s southern side is graced by the white-sand beach Löngufjörur, a hot spot for horseback riding, the otherworldly lava landscape around Búðir and the many wonders of Snæfellsjökull National Park .

On the northern side, there are charming fishing villages and Kirkjufell , one of Iceland’s most photographed mountains – particularly popular when the northern lights are out . Although it’s possible to do a whirlwind tour of Snæfellsnes in a day, you can easily spend a few: hiking, bird watching, sailing or simply taking in the views of the immense glacier.

6. Drive beyond the Ring Road on the ancient Kjölur route

Best road trip for Iceland's interior  Reykjavík – Reykjavík; approx 1378km (856 miles), at least a week

Spice up your Ring Road (Route 1) adventure by cutting through the barren interior of the country. Road 35, which splinters off from Route 1 past Gullfoss waterfall , continues along the ancient Kjölur route between glaciers Langjökull and Hofsjökull. It’s an F-road, so it requires a 4WD vehicle and is only open in the summer, but it is not as difficult as some of the other highland routes (for example, there are no river crossings.)

Around the halfway point is Hveravellir , an oasis of sorts in the snowy desert landscape, with a lodge, a natural pool for bathing and a multicolor geothermal area with marked hiking trails, including to Kerlingarfjöll mountains. You enter the Ring Road again about an hour’s drive from Akureyri , the “capital” of the north, which is great for catching up on some culture, visiting galleries or having a night on the town (with at least three bars to choose from!).

The Ring Road will take you from fjord to fjord, past eerie mountains and into quiet seaside villages. Fáskrúðsfjörður is known for a museum that honors the legacy of French sailors, located inside the beautifully renovated French hospital. In Breiðdalsvík drop by microbrewery Beljandi (named after a waterfall by the same name) and in Djúpivogur take a look at the granite egg sculptures in Gleðivík by renowned artist Sigurður Guðmundsson.

7. Explore local legends on the Diamond Circle

Best road trip of north Iceland Húsavík – Húsavík; approx 250km (155 miles), 2 days

North Iceland’s answer to the Golden Circle is the Diamond Circle . Make your base in the whale-watching town of Húsavík and head east to Ásbyrgi at the northern realms of Vatnajökull National Park . The horseshoe-shaped canyon is characterized by vertical cliffs – walk to the top of Eyjan for an amazing view of the sand beaches to the north and the North Atlantic. This is gyrfalcon territory, the largest falcon in the world, so keep an eye out for the majestic raptors.

With its lovely lake, lava fields, steaming fumaroles and bubbling hot springs, the Mývatn area is an obligatory stop on the drive back to Húsavík. Take time to marvel at the mighty Goðafoss waterfall in Skjálfandafljót. It’s called the “waterfall of the gods” because legend has it that the lawspeaker (a role in ancient Scandinavian society where someone is entrusted to recite the law) Þorgeir Ljósvetningagoði threw his pagan sculptures in the falls after deciding that Icelanders should convert to Christianity in 1000 CE. Further upstream is Aldeyjarfoss, another spectacular waterfall surrounded by columnar basalt.

Planning tip: Don’t forget to reserve some time for Húsavík itself, a bustling town with interesting museums and fabulous seafood restaurants. Geosea Geothermal Sea Baths are perched up on Húsavíurhöfði next to a yellow lighthouse with an unobstructed view of the whale-watching boats on Skjálfandi Bay.

8. Take a leisurely drive along the Arctic Coast Way

Best coastal road trip for taking your sweet time Hvammstangi – Bakkafjörður; approx 900km (560 miles), 2 weeks

Designed for slow travel, the Arctic Coast Way slings along Iceland’s northern coastline, encompassing sleepy villages, six islands and amazing natural sites few people get to see. The route starts at the seal-watching town Hvammstangi in northwest Iceland and ends in windblown Bakkafjörður in the northeast. Along the way, drivers will encounter dramatic views, lonely lighthouses and some interesting stories.

At Þrístapar, you can learn about the gruesome fate of Agnes Magnúsdóttir, the heroine of Hannah Kent’s Burial Rites who was the last woman executed in Iceland. At Brimslóð in Blönduós, there’s the option to go foraging for your dinner, and in Skagaströnd have your fortune told at the Museum of Þórdís the Prophetess. In summer, the midnight sun bounces off the ocean surface, and in winter, the northern lights dance across the night sky in between blinking stars – far from light pollution.

Other interesting stops include Hvítserkur sea stack, the massive Arctic Henge in Raufarhöfn, an ancient stone monument inspired by Norse mythology, and the gannet colony at Stóri Karl on Langanes.

Planning tip: Take your time to explore on foot, and book whale-watching, kayaking or diving tours for a different perspective of this wild coastal region.

This article was first published October 2020 and updated March 2024

Explore related stories

Feb 19, 2024 • 7 min read

After years of hard work, what better way to celebrate than with an amazing adventure? Here are the best places for a graduation trip.

Mar 28, 2023 • 6 min read

Mar 8, 2023 • 4 min read

Apr 29, 2022 • 5 min read

Mar 2, 2022 • 5 min read

Jan 5, 2022 • 7 min read

Aug 11, 2020 • 2 min read

Jul 2, 2020 • 9 min read

Jul 27, 2019 • 7 min read

Jul 15, 2019 • 5 min read

Quiz: Which San Diego Adventure is Right for You? 

THE ULTIMATE 10 DAY ICELAND ROAD TRIP ITINERARY

Iceland had been on my bucket list for a long time now. We had actually planned on visiting in September of 2020, but you know what hit the world. This country has become insanely popular in recent years, so if you are reading this blog then my guess is you are planning out your Iceland itinerary. 

There aren’t many places that you can drive around the entire country in a short period of time, but Iceland is one of those. I am going to give you the ultimate 10 Day Iceland Itinerary below. 

This country is full of insane waterfalls, vast landscapes, and incredible glaciers. If you love the outdoors and exploring then this place is for you!

For the purpose of this article, we will focus on how you too can road trip through Iceland, but first, let’s start with some frequently asked questions. 

ICELAND ITINERARY TIPS AND FAQ

These are some helpful tips and frequently asked questions to get you started and feel like an expert on your Iceland road trip. 

TIPS FOR YOUR ICELAND ITINERARY

1. Visiting during COVID? You will need a negative test to fly into the country of Iceland. 

2. Most places in Iceland accept credit cards. Personally, I didn’t use cash here once but if you do get cash, you will need to exchange your money for the Icelandic Krona.

3. In my opinion, the best way to see Iceland is by campervan. It offers you a ton of flexibility and tends to also be the more affordable route.

4. Pack layers-lots and lots of layers. Iceland gets windy and cold. 

5. Only hike on established trails and always Leave No Trace. 

When is the best time to visit Iceland?

This is a common question that is asked and really depends on what you are looking for. There are pros and cons to visiting during each season. Below is a list of each season and why you may want to visit during that time.

Summer: Warmer weather and longer days however, there are more crowds. Also, the cost of things might be more expensive. 

Fall: Fall is a great time to visit as the weather is not freezing yet and the extreme tourist prices have dropped a bit. You might even find some fall colors. Depending on the weather, most roads and campsites will stlil be open. 

Winter: If you don’t mind colder temperatures then Iceland is beautiful when covered in snow. Visiting in the Winter will give you the best chance to see the Northern lights. Weather is more unpredictable, there is less sunlight, but things tend to be cheaper during this season. 

Spring: Another great time to visit. Just like Fall, things will be cheaper during this season and the tourists will be less. 

Is Iceland expensive?

Yup, it is. Some ways you can combat this though is by visiting during the off-seasons and cooking your own meals instead of eating out. Renting a campervan is another way to save on some money as you won’t be spending a fortune on hotels. 

How much should I budget for a trip like this?

If you choose to go the campervan route, I would plan to budget about $2500 per person not including flights. Here is a breakdown of what we spent (the costs were split between 3 people)

Flights-$500/person

Activities- $200/person

Campervan-$1500 total 

Food/Groceries-$546 total 

Airbnb Lodging-$350 total 

Gas-$377 total 

Campsites-$250 total 

Where can I rent a campervan for this trip?

Great question! There are tons of options for renting a car in Iceland ; however, I did a ton of research and chose to go with LAVA car rental. I highly recommend them. You can read my article on how to rent a campervan through LAVA car rental and some more specifics on campervanning through Iceland. 

From how to rent a campervan to what to cook, I break down everything you need to know for living in a van for a week.

How do I find campsites to stay at?

Another great question! We used three different tools to find campsites in Iceland. If you actually just type in the campsite to google maps when you are in Iceland, most of the campsites will pop up; however, they don’t give you many details or if they are open or not. 

The two websites we mainly used to find our camping spots for the night were: NAT and Tjalda . 

You do not need to make reservations for these campgrounds. Just drive up and find the attendant to pay your fees to. 

Will I see the Northern Lights?

Well, it depends on what time of year you are visiting? If you come at the end of Fall and Winter your chances will be much higher. Unfortunately, we did not see any Northern Lights during our visit. The weather was not in our favor. We tracked the Aurora lights each night with the app My Aurora Forecast and Alerts. 

ICELAND ROAD TRIP ITINERARY

Let’s get started on your road trip around Iceland. My 10 day Iceland itinerary guide will help you plan your upcoming adventures! The main road around Iceland is called Route 1, otherwise known as “the Ring Road.” This is the route you will be taking for the duration of your trip.

Personally, I found that renting a campervan was the best and most affordable way to go. I rented through LAVA car rental and they provided everything I needed to make my road trip exquisite. 

DAY 1: KEFLAVIK TO REYKJAVIK

You will start your day off by landing at the Keflavik airport. Most flights land in the morning, so you should be able to have a full day to adventure ahead. Plan to spend your day exploring the main town of Reykjavik. 

We chose to rent a small car for this day to make traveling easier. The Keflavik airport is about 30-45 minutes away from Reykjavik, so depending on where you choose to stay will determine if you need a car or not. A lot of hotels offer transportation from the airport; however, we chose to stay in an Airbnb so we needed a car. 

A car also allowed us some flexibility to explore all of Reykjavik as well as stay dry throughout the day due to rain. Below are some stops you can add to your Iceland itinerary when in Reykjavik.

Stop 1: Harpa Concert Hall

The Harpa Concert Hall is a great site to look at and walk around. The architecture here is incredible and I would have loved to be able to see a concert here. 

Stop 2: Hallgrimskirkja Cathedral 

This church is in the main area of Reykjavik- you can’t miss it. It is definitely a picture-worthy spot. 

Stop 3: Northern Lights Museum

We were visiting during a season of “potentially being able to see the northern lights;” however, the forecast was not looking good for us. We found the Northern Lights museum called the Aurora Reykjavik where you could learn about how the Northern Lights occur and watch a large screen show of the lights. 

This was the perfect rainy day activity and we were able to “see” the Northern Lights. (spoiler alert we didn’t get to see the real ones during this trip. Oh well, guess we will have to go back.) 

DAY 2: REYKJAVIK TO THE GOLDEN CIRCLE

Your day will begin by picking up your campervan and then heading out to your first destination. A popular stop to add to your Iceland itinerary is the Golden Circle. This additional route can actually be done in one day. It is a popular place for people to visit when they are doing the Iceland stopover flight. 

Stop 1: Thingvellir National Park

Stop here to see the continental divide. If you plan to visit here you will need to pay for parking. 

*Tip: There is nothing to display, they just take a picture of your license plate and know if you paid or not via an automated system. 

Within Thingvellir National Park make sure to check out Ocararfoss waterfall and the Silfra dive site where you can actually scuba dive between the tectonic plates, but the water is freezing. 

Stop 2: Kerid Crater

This is an incredible crater that has some striking colors at the bottom of it due to the minerals that are constantly seeping into it. In order to visit here, park in the parking lot and pay the entrance fee to the attendant at the front. 

You can walk all the way up and around the crater for a higher view. 

Stop 3: Geysir

Make sure to stop at Geysir to watch it blow. It goes off every six to eight minutes. This place is actually where the name Geysir originated from-like the ones you see in Yellowstone. 

Stop 4: Gulfoss Waterfall

This is your last and final stop on the Golden Circle loop and probably the most incredible attraction you will see for the day. Gullfoss waterfall falls 100 feet into a canyon. You can actually view the waterfall from up above or you can get up close and personal with it. Just be warned you WILL get wet. 

Camp at the Hellisholar campground for your first night. A great campground that has a shelter for cooking in and meeting new friends! 

DAY 3: SELJALANDFOSS TO VIK

Another adventurous day ahead! Be prepared to get wet this day as you will be walking behind waterfalls and visiting hot springs. Don’t forget a towel to dry off with!

Stop 1: Seljalandfoss Waterfall

One of the most popular and stunning waterfalls in all of Iceland. It is unique because you can actually walk behind this 200-foot waterfall. Again, you will get wet here, so wear a nice rain jacket. This is a great spot to enjoy breakfast as well. 🙂

Stop 2: Seljavallalaug Hot Spring

Just 20 minutes down the road from Seljalandfoss waterfall you will find a hot spring. It is a bit hidden, but the views are beautiful. You will drive down a long gravel road until you see a parking lot. 

From here, you will need to follow the signs and walk for about another 30 minutes. You will then reach the hot spring, which is more like a warm bath, but the views can’t be beaten. There is a changing room here as well, so if it is cold out I recommend wearing your warm clothes and changing once you get to the hot spring. 

Stop 3: Skogafoss Waterfall

Another waterfall! Are you seeing the trend here? There are two ways to view this waterfall. You can walk up the stairs to the top or check it out from the bottom. 

Stop 4: Plane Wreck

I’m not sure why this place has become so popular, maybe because it makes for some cool Instagram photos, but regardless, if you have the time it is a fun stop to add to your Iceland itinerary. 

There is a shuttle that takes you down to the plane wreck site which costs about $11 USD each way or you can walk on a flat gravel road which takes about 2 hours. 

Tip: I recommend just paying for the shuttle to save time. The walk isn’t anything special and it can be cold and windy. The shuttle runs about every 10 minutes. 

Stop 5: Reynisfjara Black Sand Beach

This black sand beach was formed by the lava hitting the ocean waves. This beach is a beautiful coastline covered in black sand and it is also where you can find the insta famous basalt columns. 

Be aware of the sneaker waves. Don’t get too close to the water as each year multiple people die from these waves and get swept out to sea. The waves don’t look scary, but they are powerful. You will see signs everywhere about the. 

For your sleeping arrangements tonight I recommend driving to Vik and staying at the Vik campground . The facilities here are exquisite-the best hot shower in my life. 

If you are looking for a dinner location this night check out the Strondin Bistro and Bar. I had one of the best pasta dishes of my life here. 

DAY 4: VIK TO JOKULSARLON GLACIER LAGOON

Start your morning off by grabbing a coffee from Skool Beans. It is right behind the Vik Campground-you can walk there. 

Stop 1: Fjadrargljufur Canyon 

After you have fueled up with coffee head on over to Fjadrargljufur Canyon. Once here take a walk around the trail that takes you along the moss-covered rocky cliffs. You won’t be disappointed with the views below. 

This location actually saw an 80% increase in tourism due to Justin Bieber’s music video that was filmed there called “I’ll show you.”

Stop 2: Svinafellsjokull Glacier

A glacier that is easily accessible to everyone. Requiring just a short walk to get here, you can practically walk up to and touch this glacier. Maybe even stand on one of the icebergs that have come ashore? While we were here we saw people getting out of helicopters that were landing on top of the glacier. 

*This is a great spot to stop and have lunch as well.

Stop 3: Jokulsarlon Glacier Lagoon

An incredible sunset spot. We weren’t even planning on being here for sunset, but we landed here and were blessed with some incredible colors in the sky. We chose to just enjoy the views here for a while as we cooked up some burritos in the campervan. 

DAY 5: GLACIER LAGOON TO DJUPIVOGUR

Begin your morning by making some breakfast, may I suggest pancakes, before heading out on a fun tour with Local Guide. 

Stop 1: Ice Cave tour with Local Guide

Local Guide specializes in tours in Iceland by taking you on the glaciers themselves and into the ice caves below. We chose the 4-hour tour that starts right from the glacier lagoon. Begin your adventure in a huge 4×4 vehicle as they drive you down to the ice cave. Once you arrive you will need to walk about 30 minutes to actually get inside the glacier.

Local Guide provides you with all the safety gear needed as well as a very knowledgeable tour guide. I would highly recommend adding this activity to your Iceland itinerary. 

Stop 2: Viking Village in Hofn

This is an abandoned Viking village that was originally built for a film, but the film never got shot here. You can pay just a few dollars to tour this film set. 

Stop 3: Vestahorn (Stokksnes)

In the same area as the Viking village, you will find Vestahorn. The same entrance fee of about $8 USD will give you access to this stop. Make sure to take some photos at this beautiful and dramatic beach. 

** Stay the night in Djupivogur campground

DAY 6: DJUPIVOGUR TO MYVATN

We have some driving days coming up, but the landscape is beautiful, so the time will fly by. As always, be careful when driving and keep an eye on the weather conditions as they are ever-changing in Iceland. 

Stop 1: Studlagil Canyon

A place I hide been dying to see for the entirety of my Iceland trip. This canyon is famous for its Basalt columns and the vibrant blue river below. Getting here is a little tricky. There are two ways to view this canyon, but if you want to get down to the water you will want to head to the east side of the canyon.

In your google maps, put “carpark Studlagil Canyon East side.” Cross the driveable bridge (do not park before the bridge even if you see other people parking there). Drive over the bridge and continue on the dirt road until you see the second parking lot. Park here. 

Once parked, you will need to walk about an hour to get to the location. You will be entering a farmer’s property and have to pass through some gates-this is allowed as long as you respect the land. Follow the signs to get to the canyon. 

***Do note that if you come on a rainy day or a day after bad weather, the water might not be the bright blue it normally is. 

If the weather is in your favor, some other places you could add to your Iceland road trip itinerary for this day would be the Dettifoss waterfall or the Myvatn Nature Baths . We actually tried to go to the NMyvatn Nature Baths, but they were closed upon our arrival, but the views dis look gorgeous. 

Unfortunately, today was a rainy day for us, so we ended up doing a lot of driving this day. For camping tonight we stayed at Vogar campground. (Don’t get this campsite mixed up with the one near Reykjavik) This one is located near Lake Myvatn. 

DAY 7: MYVATN TO BLONDUOS

This is a day of sightseeing and lots of driving. You will be visiting the Krafla area. This area is filled with lots of geothermal activity and volcanic landscape. All the locations below are within short driving distance of each other. 

Stop 1: Viti Crater

This vibrant blue crater is located in the Krafla area. When the weather is in your favor you can actually drive right up to the crater’s parking lot. The day we chose to go we hit a snowstorm. There is a hill to get up to this crater and cars were not making it up, so we had to park at the bottom and hike up to the top. 

Stop 2: Geothermal area of Krafla

This area is sometimes called “Hell’s kitchen” due to the steaming and boiling hot pots and strong smells of sulfur. Walk around the sites and make sure to read the signs for some great information on how these areas formed and have evolved. 

Stop 3: Grjotagja Cave

A geothermal hot spring in a cave. This particular hot spring was in a scene from Game of Thrones. You are not allowed to go in this hot spring though as the temperatures are too extreme.

Stop 4: Godafoss Waterfall

The “waterfall of the Gods” is located between the towns of Husavik and Akureyri. I recommend walking along both sides of this waterfall and seeing it from all angles. 

DAY 8: BLONDUOS TO GRINDAVIK

Unfortunately, this day is going to be filled with a lot of driving and little sightseeing. The drive itself is gorgeous, but in order to make it back in time to finish off your Iceland itinerary, you will need to put some miles in this day. 

If you are a go-getter and willing to sacrifice some sleep the following places could be added to your Iceland itinerary. 

Akureyri -the second largest city in Iceland. This is a great place to stop for some food. Nearby you can also find the Fosslaug hot spring. 

Kirkjufellsfoss -another popular stop that I really wanted to do, but we just didn’t have the time for it. It is a famous photography spot. 

DAY 9: GRINDAVIK TO THE BLUE LAGOON

You did it! Now it is time to relax after spending 9 days sleeping in a campervan. Start your morning off by visiting the Grotta lighthouse and then spend the afternoon relaxing ad the Blue Lagoon. 

Stop 1: Grotta lighthouse

Not a must-see kind of spot, but something you could always add to your Iceland itinerary to fill time-which is what we did. This IS a great spot to see the Northern Lights though as it is far enough outside the city of Reykjavik that it gets dark enough. 

Stop 2: The Blue Lagoon

Is it pricey? Yes! Is it worth it? 100% yes! My husband and father-in-law said this might have been their favorite spot from the trip haha. Although, the Blue Lagoon is a tourist trap I would say you have to visit it if you are in Iceland.

I recommend going at the end of your trip as well. Personally, I think you will feel more relaxed by adding it to the end of your Iceland itinerary. We chose the most basic package which included a face mask, a free drink, and towels along with spending as much time as we wanted in the Lagoon itself.

We ended up staying here for about 5 hours it was THAT amazing. 

For tonight’s camping, we stayed at the local campground in the Reykjavik area this night as we needed to return our campervan the following day. 

DAY 10: WRAP IT UP

This is the final day of your Iceland trip before you fly out. Because COVID is now a “thing” I highly recommend adding an extra day onto your itinerary to find a place to get COVID tested before your flight home. 

We chose to take it easy this day by sleeping in, returning our campervan, getting our COVID tests, grabbing an Icelandic hotdog, and preparing for our flight home. 

ICELAND ROAD TRIP TIPS

I wanted to add a few more tips that you should think about when planning out your Iceland itinerary. 

There are essentially two ways to obtain internet while you are on the road. A lot of people will purchase a SIM card with data on it. SIM cards can be found at most gas stations in Iceland. Personally, I recommend renting the Wifi box through your campervan rental company instead of getting a SIM card. 

The wifi box allows you to get wifi around the entire island. Our wifi box cost us $150 and allowed up to 10 devices to be connected to it. It was also rechargeable by plugging it into a USB port. 

-If you are traveling to Iceland during COVID times then you will need to research what the current requirements are to enter. During our visit to Iceland, if you were vaccinated or had proof of recovery from COVID, you were allowed to enter with a negative PCR test as well as no quarantine. 

If you were unvaccinated you were still allowed to enter, but a quarantine was required upon arrival. 

A pre-registration form was also required prior to entering the country of Iceland.  -Lastly, always keep an eye on the weather in Iceland. It is constantly changing. I do not recommend relying on your apple weather app. Everyone in Iceland recommends using the Vedur app , which is what we used and found to be most accurate.

Lastly, if plan to do a road trip around Iceland then consider checking out this article on more ways to exactly plan out the ultimate road trip .

FINAL THOUGHTS TO PLAN YOUR ICELAND ROADTRIP ITINERARY

This trip was one of my most favorite international trips to date. I just could not get over how beautiful all the scenery was. Each corner you rounded was something new and impressive. I hope you found this Iceland itinerary helpful for planning purposes. If you have any questions, just ask in the comments and I will get back to you!

Similar Posts

The most epic Tuscany Road Trip Itinerary

The Perfect 1 Day in Cinque Terre Itinerary

THE ULTIMATE 5 DAY DOLOMITES ROAD TRIP ITINERARY

How to Campervan in Iceland with LAVA car rental

Leave a reply cancel reply.

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

ICELAND OVERLAND GROUP TOUR

Our popular 16 day Iceland camping tour is a budget-friendly trip that takes you to all the highlights of Iceland including the remote Westfjords. This in-depth tour circumnavigates the whole island and also gives you an option to visit the Central Highlands as well as the active Fagradalsfjall volcano which has been erupting intermittently since 2021. Our Iceland tour is suitable for all ages and anyone with a passion for adventure travel!

ESSENTIAL INFORMATION, DATES & BOOKING

Price:  £2926 (£182 per day)

Length:  16 days, 15 nights

Accommodation:  100% camping

Transport:  100% custom-built Madventure overland truck

Meals:   15 breakfasts ; 15 evening meals provided

Age restrictions: none, all ages are welcome

Group size: 20 is average, minimum is 10, maximum is 26

Start Reykjavik, Iceland 27 July 2024

End Reykjavik, Iceland 11 August 2024

ROUTE MAP & TOUR HIGHLIGHTS

Our itinerary has been designed to show you the best of Iceland in a comfortable timeframe. The itinerary rarely changes on this tour but please be prepared to accept minor itinerary changes in the event we encounter any problems.

DAY 1 – REYKJAVÍK

Today we all meet at the Reykjavík Campsite and a pre-departure meeting will be held at 18H00 for those who would like to attend. 

An early arrival on day 1 will ensure you allow enough time to have a wander around Iceland’s colourful capital city Reykjavík which is home to some superb museums, historic buildings and lively pubs.

Dinner will be provided at the campsite this evening after the pre-departure meeting so feel free to attend and meet your fellow travellers over dinner and drinks.

Our first night will be spent camping at the Reykjavík Campsite.

DAY 2 - SNÆFELLSNES PENINSULA - KIRKJUFELL - BERSERKJAHRAUN LAVA FIELD - SHARK MUSEUM

We depart Reykjavík Campsite at 0800 and head north to the beautiful Snæfellsnes Peninsula where the mammoth Snæfellsjökull Glacier dominates the centre of the peninsula and offers a beautiful backdrop to the surrounding scenery.

In the morning we journey around the peninsula, first visiting the sights at Arnarstapi, where there are rock arches and basalt columns, backed by a black pebble beach, before stopping for lunch at the small fishing port of Ólafsvík.

After lunch we continue to the dramatic 463m tall Kirkjufell Mountain, walk amongst the other-worldly lava fields at Berserkjahraun and learn all about Greenland Sharks at the Bjarnarhöfn Shark Museum. At the Shark Museum there is also an opportunity to sample the traditional Icelandic food of fermented shark.

Tonight we camp in Stykkishólmur.

DAY 3 - WESTFJORDS - LÁTRABJARG SEA CLIFFS - PUFFINS

Today we take a drive along dramatic coastal scenery to reach the remote Westfjords and Látrabjarg Sea Cliffs, Europe’s most westerly point home to millions of sea-birds including Skuas, Arctic Terns, Guillemots, Eider Ducks, Razorbills and of course the iconic Atlantic Puffins!

Tonight we camp a short distance away from the puffin nesting cliffs at a beautiful campsite close to the deserted Breiðavík beach where anyone brave enough can take a cool dip in the Atlantic Ocean.

DAY 4 - WESTFJORDS - SHIPWRECK - DYNJANDI WATERFALL

This morning we will visit the famous Gardar BA64 shipwreck, Iceland’s oldest steel ship that was run aground here in 1981 after decades of faithful service.

The rest of the day is spent exploring the remote Westfjords, one of Iceland’s most beautiful regions and unseen by most tourists as it is so far off the beaten track.

As we hug the roads around the blue fjords we pass through numerous picturesque fishing villages and also visit Dynjandi, the largest waterfall in the Westfjords.

We end the day at a campsite close to the charming capital of the Westfjords, Ísafjörður.

DAY 5 - WESTFJORDS SCENIC DRIVE - HÓLMAVÍK WITCHCRAFT MUSEUM - THERMAL POOLS

Today we continue around the dramatic Westfjords coastline and have lunch in Hólmavík, a small village famous for its Witchcraft Museum.

We end the day camping in the grounds of a country hotel in Húnavellir, close to Blönduós, where you have the option to have a dip in a thermal pool.

DAY 6 - TRÖLLASKAGI PENINSULA - SCENIC ROUTE 76 - AKUREYRI

We start the day by travelling around the Tröllaskagi Peninsula on Route 76 which is rated as one of Iceland’s most picturesque drives with dramatic coastal and mountain scenery.

At lunchtime we arrive at Iceland’s ‘capital of the north’ Akureyri and have the rest of the day to explore the city’s museums & gardens or just relax in the old town sipping locally brewed craft beer and sampling some of Iceland’s best cuisine.

Tonight we camp close to Akureyri.

DAY 7 - GOÐAFOSS WATERFALL - LAKE MÝVATN - HVERFJALL VOLCANO CRATER

Not far out of Akureyri we spend an hour at the impressive Goðafoss waterfall before continuing to Lake Mývatn, the undisputed gem of the northeast with a landscape full of spluttering mud-pots, weird lava formations, steaming fumaroles and volcanic craters.

Our journey around Lake Mývatn includes stops at Skútustaðagígar craters, lava pillars at Höfði, Dimmuborgir lava fields, Hverfjall volcano crater and Grjótagjá lava caves.

We end the day close to the shores of Lake Mývatn where you have the option to spend the afternoon relaxing at the Nature Baths, the Blue Lagoon of the North.

We will spend tonight camping close to Reykjahlíð village.

DAY 8 - LAKE MÝVATN - CENTRAL HIGHLANDS - ASKJA CALDERA

Today you have a free day to relax at Lake Mývatn or you have the option of travelling by 4×4 into the Central Highlands to visit one of Iceland’s most spectacular sights, Askja caldera, a sulphur-blue lake born out of the cataclysmic volcanic eruption in 1875. The nearby Viti crater offers the option for a geothermal swim. The journey to Askja takes you through an area that was used by NASA during training for the Apollo program , to prepare astronauts for the lunar missions. This stark, barren and otherworldly landscape is one of Iceland’s many dramatic and unique scenes, and it won’t take long to appreciate why NASA used the area.

DAY 9 - HVERIR GEOTHERMAL AREA - KRAFLA CALDERA - HÚSAVÍK WHALE WATCHING

This morning we will visit the Hverir geothermal area where we spend an hour walking through a truly unique orangy-red landscape of fumaroles, large mud pools and steam vents.

We continue to the impressive Krafla caldera, a beautiful sight in a region of extreme geothermal activity where you can walk up to the crater rim and look down into the turquoise waters within the crater.

A couple of hours away on the north coast we reach the town of Húsavík, undeniably the best place in Iceland to go whale watching. Those who wish to see these magnificent creatures up close can spend the afternoon whale watching on a boat tour where you have the chance to see humpbacks, minke and blue whales.

Those who do not wish to do the whale watching tour can spend the day exploring the small town of Húsavík, a pretty fishing town with an interesting whale & exploration museum. End the day soaking yourself in the spectacular geothermal heated pools overlooking the North Atlantic.

We will spend tonight camping in the town of Húsavík.

DAY 10 - DETTIFOSS & SELFOSS WATERFALLS - SEYÐISFJÖRÐUR

Today we will drive through the Vatnajökull National Park, to visit a huge canyon that ends at Europe’s most powerful waterfall, Dettifoss. Standing on the edge overlooking this gushing torrent is an experience not to be missed!

Just upstream from Dettifoss you will find Selfoss waterfall, well-worth the half hour trek for outstanding views.

In the afternoon we will continue to Seyðisfjörður, a picturesque little town in eastern Iceland situated at the end of a fjord surrounded by steep mountains and famed for its rainbow street. The town is a step back in time and is crammed with 19th century timber buildings, quaint coffee shops and traditional restaurants.

We will spend this evening camping in the heart of Seyðisfjörður.

DAY 11 - GUFUFOSS - VESTRAHORN - HÖFN

This morning we will stop to see the beautiful Gufufoss waterfall before we take the scenic route through the mountains to reach the south coast.

We will stop for lunch in the small fishing village of Djúpivogur, a pretty village nestled on the side of a fjord. From here, we continue the drive along Iceland’s spectacular eastfjords, eventually reaching one of the country’s most iconic sights, Vestrahorn. On a clear day you can see this majestic mountain range rising out of the sea to produce one of the most stunning vistas on the island!

Further along the coast we reach the town of Höfn, where we spend the night.

DAY 12 - JÖKULSÁRLÓN GLACIER LAGOON - HOFSKIRKJA - SKAFTAFELL NATIONAL PARK

Driving along this part of the south coast we have a good chance of spotting wild reindeer before reaching one of Iceland’s most iconic sights, the Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon. Here you have the option to take a boat trip amongst the ancient icebergs and walk along Diamond Beach, a stretch of black sand littered with icebergs.

Further along the coast we encounter the fairytale-like church of Hofskirkja, the last turf church ever built in Iceland.

Our final destination today is Skaftafell National Park where we will spend 2 nights camping to allow us enough time to visit this amazing area of outstanding beauty.

DAY 13 - SKAFTAFELL NATIONAL PARK - HIKING - GLACIER TREKKING

Today is a great day to get your hiking boots on and hit one of Skaftafell’s many hiking trails that lead to incredible views of glaciers, waterfalls and mountains. The more adventurous can put on their crampons and go glacier trekking. The less adventurous can kick back and enjoy a cold beer with a magnificent view.

We will spend this evening camping in Skaftafell National Park.

DAY 14 - VÍK - REYNISFJARA BLACK SAND BEACH - SKÓGAFOSS WATERFALL - GEYSIR

From Skaftafell we continue to the remote seaside village of Vík where you have time to shop for some Icelandic souvenirs before heading over the hill to the world-famous Reynisfjara black sand beach. Enormous basalt stacks, dramatic rock arches, roaring Atlantic waves and stunning panoramas make this one of the world’s most highly rated non-tropical beaches and a great place for us to have lunch.

This afternoon we continue to the spectacular Skógafoss waterfall, one of Iceland’s largest and most famous.

Later in the day we also visit Seljalandsfoss, a unique waterfall distinguished by the fact that you can fully encircle the falls via a path that leads you behind the cascading water and out the other side.

At the end of the day we reach Geysir, the place after which all other geysers are named, where we spend the night at a campsite with a view over a steaming landscape.

DAY 15 - GULLFOSS WATERFALL - GEYSIR - ÞINGVELLIR NATIONAL PARK - GRINDAVÍK

We start the day with a visit to Iceland’s most iconic waterfall, Gullfoss. This powerful waterfall plummets down 32 metres in 2 stages into a rugged canyon, an awesome spectacle.

A short drive away we now visit Geysir where you have time to wander through an extraordinary landscape of bubbling hot springs and steaming fumaroles. The geysers have been active for perhaps 800 years and still erupt regularly enough for you to get a natural geothermal shower during your visit!

We continue to Þingvellir National Park where the American and Eurasian tectonic plates meet to form an incredible fissured rift valley. This is also Iceland’s most important historic site where the vikings established the world’s first democratic parliament.

We end the day at Grindavík, a beautiful Icelandic fishing town on the south coast of the Reykjanes Peninsula where we camp near the town centre. If the weather is good we may decide to visit the active Fagradalsfjall volcano this evening.

PLEASE NOTE: This last night at Grindavík is subject to change depending on the volcanic activity in the area.

DAY 16 - FAGRADALSFJALL ACTIVE VOLCANO - REYKJAVÍK

We start the final day of the tour with a visit to the active Fagradalsfjall volcano which has been erupting intermittently since early 2021. A 20 minute walk takes us up to the steaming lava fields where you can see a valley filled with molten rock and the scars of where it flooded down the valley sides. This is a once in a lifetime experience you will never forget!

Our tour ends upon arrival back in Reykjavík in the mid-afternoon. Accommodation is not provided tonight as many people fly home today but should you wish to spend tonight in Reykjavik you are welcome to stay at the Reykjavík campsite where the tour officially ends. For anyone who does stay in Reykjavík tonight we usually have a group farewell dinner at a local restaurant close to the campsite.

ADDITIONAL INFOMATION

Booking & payment.

How to book

To make a booking please fill in our online booking form and then pay a £300 deposit by bank transfer, Paypal or credit/debit card over the phone. Once we receive your online booking form and deposit we will confirm your booking by email and send you all relevant information necessary for your tour preparations.

Tour Payment

The Tour Payment of £2926 is the complete payment for your tour and is payable in the U.K. in GBP (£ Sterling). In order to reserve a place on this tour you must pay £300 as a deposit. Eight months prior to departure a further payment of £1000 must be paid to secure your booking. The final balance of your Tour Payment £1626 must then be paid in full at least four months prior to the tour start date. If you book between 4 to 8 months prior to the departure date a deposit of £1300 should be paid upon booking. If you book within 4 months of the departure date the full Tour Payment of £2926 should be paid upon booking.

The Tour Payment can be paid by credit/debit card, bank transfer or Paypal.

Credit/Debit card

Please call or Whatsapp us on +44 7712 225 438 to make a payment using your credit or debit card.

Bank Details for Direct Transfers

NOTE: Please use your full name as a reference when paying by direct transfer.

Account name: Madventure Ltd.

Sort code: 400810

Account number: 91618415

IBAN : GB14HBUK40081091618415

Swift/Bank BIC: HBUKGB4B

Branch BIC: HBUKGB4116A

Bank address: HSBC Bank, 6 High Street, Abingdon, Oxfordshire, OX14 5AZ, United Kingdom

Paypal account name: [email protected]

WHAT’S INCLUDED & WHAT’S NOT

• Services of your tour leader and driver
• Transportation in custom built overland truck
• Diesel, mechanics, repairs and any other costs relating to the vehicles
• Use of our own group cook tent, seating and cooking equipment
• 15 breakfasts & 15 evening meals
• All accommodation costs (100% camping)
• National Park entry fees when we enter as a group with our vehicle
• Local transportation costs (if required)

Not Included

• Personal travel insurance
• Personal spending money (£150 – £200 per week recommended)
• Visas (most nationalities do not require a visa to enter Iceland)
• Accommodation upgrades
• Entrance fees to optional sites and parks
• Any optional activities
• Any flights (no flights expected during this tour)
• Airport transfers
• Tent, roll mat, sleeping bag & pillow
• Tips (GBP £50 per crew member recommended)

OPTIONAL EXCURSIONS

Below is a list of the most popular optional excursions along with the most recent prices. Prices can of course change and are not controlled in any way by Madventure so please use the list below as an approximate guide only.

Mt. Kirkjufell – free

Shark museum – £10

Berserkjahraun lava fields – free

Latrabjarg bird-cliffs – free

Dynjandi waterfall – free

Holmavik Witchcraft Museum – £10

Godafoss waterfall – free

Myvatn Lake – free

Hverfjall Crater – free

Myvatn Nature Baths – £38

Krafla crater – free

Hverir geothermal area – free

Husavik whale watching tour – £60

Husavik puffin & whale watching tour – £100

Dettifoss waterfall – free

Askja caldera – £185

Jokulsarlon Iceberg Lagoon – free

Diamond Beach – free

Amphibian boat trip on Jokulsarlon Iceberg Lagoon – £35

Zodiac boat trip on Jokulsarlon Iceberg Lagoon – £60

Skaftafell hiking – free

Skaftafell glacier trekking – £60

Reynisfjara black sand beach – free

Skógafoss – free

Seljalandsfoss – free

Geysir – free

Gullfoss waterfall – free

Thingvellir National Park – free

Fagradalsfjall active volcano hike  – free

TRANSPORT & EQUIPMENT

We will be travelling in a custom-built Madventure overland vehicle 100% of the time on this tour. Our vehicle can accommodate up to 26 people.

Comfort and safety is of course a big factor during expeditions of this length and nature so all our vehicles have high-backed coach seats with safety belts. The seating is on the upper level of the vehicle giving you an almost 360° view of the surrounding scenery.

Our vehicles are designed to allow sufficient luggage storage and are also equipped with lockers to keep all your gear safe.

Our long range diesel and water tanks ensure our self sufficiency in remote areas and the equipment we take with us is also of vital importance. In case of a breakdown we are equipped with a good selection of spare parts as well as a comprehensive tool kit to undertake any necessary repairs on our own as and when we need to.

There may also be times when we get stuck in the sand or mud when travelling off road so all necessary recovery equipment such as sand mats, cables, ropes, shovels and pickaxes are also on board.

We usually carry 400 litres of treated drinking water and we are equipped with a good kitchen which includes all cutlery, plates, cups, pots and pans, utensils, gas cooker, BBQ grate, tables, etc.

Our vehicles are also equipped with a small fridge which is used for the cook group’s breakfast and dinner food only. For personal food and drinks we have cooler boxes for everyone to use.

Comfortable fold up chairs are provided for outdoor seating and we also have a large cook tent to keep us dry on those rainy days.

Our vehicles are equipped with USB charging points only so try and bring all of your important electronic devices such as telephone, tablet and head-torch to charge from a USB socket. We do not have a 120V or 240V power supply on the vehicle but you will have the opportunity to charge your 120/240V electronic equipment at the campsites we stay at.

We carry a comprehensive first aid kit for emergencies but we do recommend you bring your own for general use.

FOOD & COOKING

Eating well is a very important factor on our tours and good food is vital for everyone’s health and well-being so we always strive to prepare healthy, wholesome and plentiful meals.

15 breakfasts and 15 evening meals are provided during this tour and will be prepared from our own kitchen on the truck. For lunch we usually stop at a supermarket or a restaurant giving you a chance to taste the local fare too. Lunch is at your own expense. 

When it comes to shopping and cooking we will divide ourselves up into groups of 3 or 4 people (depending on group size) who will shop for and prepare the day’s meals and clean up at the end. This will work out that you roughly get to cook once a week (depending on numbers).

Fresh food is generally available daily so we try to eat meat and vegetables for every main evening meal. We do also cater for vegetarians but we cannot cater for fussiness. In these group situations everybody must appreciate we cannot cater for individual likes and dislikes.

Don’t worry if you are not a gourmet cook as your crew are also always there to give advice.

All our vehicles are equipped with a small fridge which is used for the cook group’s food only. For personal food and drinks we have cooler boxes for everyone to use.

Cleanliness plays an important role throughout this expedition and your crew will make sure an acceptable level of general hygiene is maintained throughout your journey to ensure the wellbeing of the group.

ACCOMMODATION

You will spend 100% of your time on this tour in your tent camping.

We use designated campsites with amenities every night on this tour so you will have shower facilities and ablutions available daily.

From past experience we have found that people prefer to supply their own tents as they are then not forced to share and they can pick a tent that suits their needs. As a general rule try and choose a good quality, lightweight, compact, waterproof & windproof tent that is easy to erect, take down and carry.

TERMS & CONDITIONS

1. Your contract is with Madventure Limited, a company registered in England and Wales (Company No. 6809461) whose office is at 10 Ablett Close, Oxford, OX4 1XH, United Kingdom.

2. A deposit of £300 is payable at the time of booking. The deposit is non-refundable unless Madventure is unable to offer you a place or you cancel within 14 days of the initial booking date. Madventure guarantees not to increase the tour price once the deposit has been received.

3. A booking is made in the name of the client and is not transferable to another person. You are only permitted to transfer your deposit once to a future tour, after that a further £300 non-refundable deposit will be required to book another tour. Please note that you will be affected if you have transferred and there is a price increase as you will have to pay the current tour price at the time that the tour balance payment is due.

4. Eight months prior to departure a further payment must be received to cover 50% of the total tour price in order to secure your booking. This payment is non-refundable unless we can not provide the tour. The final 50% balance of your tour payment must then be paid in full at least four months prior to the tour start date at which time the tour will be confirmed to run. Once the tour is confirmed to run you will not receive any refunds of any monies paid. If the full payment is not received 4 months prior to departure Madventure may deem the booking cancelled and all monies paid will be forfeited. If you book within the 4 to 8 month period prior to departure a non-refundable 50% deposit of the total tour price should be paid upon booking. If you book within the 4 month period prior to departure the full non-refundable 100% tour payment must be paid upon booking.

5. Cancellation of a booking must be notified in writing and when received by Madventure any monies paid will be forfeited. You acknowledge that payment for the tour is an intrinsic part of the tour’s income and contributes towards the overall costs of equipment, vehicle running costs, staff administration, travel permits, etc. and Madventure will have incurred a large part of its costs before the actual departure date. You will not receive a refund of any amount after the tour has been confirmed to run (which will usually happen no later than 4 months prior to the tour departing). We therefore recommend you take out your travel insurance from the date you make your final tour balance payment, 4 months prior to departure, so you are insured if you have to withdraw off the tour. If the reason for your cancellation is covered under the terms of your insurance policy you may be able to reclaim these charges but it is your sole responsibility to do so and we accept no liability for any acts or omissions of your insurance company.

6. It is unlikely that we will have to make any changes to your tour, but we do plan all tours many months in advance. Occasionally, we may have to make changes and we reserve the right to do so at any time. Most of these changes will be minor and we will advise you of them at the earliest possible date. We also reserve the right in any circumstances to cancel your tour. For example, if the minimum number of clients required for a particular tour is not reached, we may have to cancel it. However, we will not cancel your tour less than 4 months before your departure date (except for reasons of Force Majeure). If we are unable to provide the tour for any reason you can either have a full refund of all monies paid within 14 working days of the tour being cancelled or accept an offer of an alternative tour of comparable standard from us, if available (we will refund any price difference if the alternative is of a lower value).  In the event of the tour being cancelled prior to departure, all monies paid by you towards the tour cost only will be refunded. In the event of a cancellation Madventure is not responsible for reimbursing costs of equipment, flights, visas, vaccinations, medications, etc. purchased by yourself so we therefore recommend you have suitable travel insurance to ensure these types of expenses are covered under the terms of your insurance policy as you may be able to reclaim these charges but it is your sole responsibility to do so and we accept no liability for any acts or omissions of your insurance company.

7. In the unlikely event of a Force Majeure situation that forces us to cancel the tour within 4 months of the planned departure date because of unusual or unforeseeable circumstances beyond our control, you can either have a full refund of all monies paid within 14 working days of the tour being cancelled or accept an offer of an alternative tour of comparable standard from us, if available (we will refund any price difference if the alternative is of a lower value). In the unlikely event of a Force Majeure situation that forces us to cancel or change the tour while it is underway because of unusual or unforeseeable circumstances beyond our control, we will not refund you or pay you compensation. Therefore, we recommend you have suitable travel insurance as, if the reason for the tour cancellation while underway is covered under the terms of your insurance policy, you may be able to reclaim these charges, but it is your sole responsibility to do so and we accept no liability for any acts or omissions of your insurance company. Force Majeure situations can include, for example, war, riot, industrial dispute, terrorist activity and its consequences, natural or nuclear disaster, fire, epidemics, pandemics, health risks, closed or congested airports, ports or stations, poor local infrastructure, changes imposed by rescheduling or cancellation of transport by the transport supplier such as flights by airlines or main charterer, the alteration of transport or transport types, adverse weather conditions (actual or threatened), avalanche and technical failure with transport, Foreign & Commonwealth Office advice changing and advising against travel to the tour destination.

8. If you choose to leave the tour for any reason on your own accord once the tour is underway you will not receive any compensation from Madventure including any refunds of the tour payment and/or the local payment. We therefore recommend you have suitable travel insurance as if the reason for your departure is covered under the terms of your insurance policy you may be able to reclaim these charges but it is your sole responsibility to do so and we accept no liability for any acts or omissions of your insurance company.

9. We reserve the right at any time prior to the departure date, without prior consultation with yourself, to merge your tour with one or more other tours travelling at the same time. This will not constitute a major change and would usually just mean swapping vehicles.

10. The tour payment and local payment cover transport, accommodation, some related ferry and train tickets, meals and national park entry fees as specified on the website, repair of our expedition vehicle as well as repair and replacement of camping equipment including stools, cooking equipment & utensils.

11. The tour leader has sole responsibility for the local payment. Any local payment monies or stock remaining at the tour end are non-refundable.

12. You undertake to comply with the laws and regulations, whether in respect of health, immigration, currency exchange control, dress or any other matter of all the countries visited during the tour.

13. You undertake to obtain a valid passport and have enough blank pages in the passport for the tour and your specific passport and visa requirements. Immigration requirements are your responsibility and you should confirm these with the relevant embassies and/or consulates. We do not accept any responsibility and shall not be liable if you cannot travel or cannot participate in any part of the tour because you have not complied with any passport, visa or immigration requirements. You are responsible for obtaining and having available the necessary documents (including but not limited to full, current passport with enough blank pages to complete the trip and valid for at least 6 months from the last day of the tour and visas for all periods, countries and territories within the tour) enabling you to participate in the tour and shall comply with all local legislation and regulations of the countries in which the tour takes place (including immigration requirements, customs regulations and currency exchange). You shall indemnify us against any loss or expense that we may incur or suffer as a result of breach of this condition by you.  We cannot guarantee visa prices and availability of visas. Ultimately visas are your own responsibility to obtain.

14. Madventure reserves the right to deviate from the advertised tour route if in their reasonable opinion such deviation is necessary for the safety or well-being of any or any one of the members of the tour or for the satisfactory progress of the tour. In the event of it becoming necessary to fly over a country or countries in order to satisfactorily and safely continue the tour, all costs of your flights will be borne by yourself.

15. Madventure accepts no responsibility for matters arising out of political disputes, border closures, epidemics, pandemics, natural disasters, climate, armed robbery, terrorism, etc. Should it become necessary to abandon a tour because of such an event Madventure will be entitled to retain all monies paid. We therefore recommend you have suitable travel insurance as if the reason for cancellation is covered under the terms of your insurance policy you may be able to reclaim these charges but it is your sole responsibility to do so and we accept no liability for any acts or omissions of your insurance company.

16. You accept that owing to the nature of countries visited, all tours involve an element of personal risk and are of a potentially hazardous and unpredictable nature. In many countries we visit, the basic infrastructure, such as roads, is very poor and therefore less safe than that familiar to people from many western countries. In particular, lack of road markings or warning signs, unmarked speed bumps, seasonal flooding of roads and bridges, local vehicles which are poorly maintained and driven and which are hazardous to other road users etc. are factors beyond the control of Madventure. You accept that in some areas we drive off-road and that this involves personal risk when the expedition vehicle can be negotiating rough terrain. Madventure owns and operates many of its own expedition vehicles and employs its own crew. Where stated, locally arranged transport and crew, including trains, ferries, buses or coaches are used. Where Madventure’s own vehicles and/or crew are not used for the above services, you agree that the obligation of Madventure to yourself is to select normally competent, independent subcontractors to provide the necessary services related to the tour and to exercise reasonable care in selecting such suppliers to provide these. You also accept that you undertake this tour at your own risk and your participation is your own decision and does not form any part of your contract with Madventure. Madventure does not take responsibility for cancellations, unreliability of services or safety of operators, agents or contractors.

17. You accept that local emergency facilities are usually of a very limited nature. Hospitals outside of large cities often have no accident and emergency facilities and emergency transport facilities can be non-existent.

18. If you have a problem during your trip please inform the tour leader immediately who will endeavour to put things right. If your complaint is not resolved locally please follow this up by emailing or writing to our office giving all other relevant information and, where possible, evidence. We must receive any such complaint no later than 28 days from the date of completion of your tour in order to take appropriate action. Please keep your letter concise and to the point. This will assist us to quickly identify your concerns and speed up our response to you.

19. We do not accept any liability or responsibility for any personal possessions (including but not limited to cameras, jewellery, valuables and money) which is carried on or in our vehicles, carried on public transport or transport supplied by independent subcontractors, left in accommodation provided by us or our suppliers during a trip or left in our care during a tour. Such items are carried and/or left at your own risk.

20. Excursions or other tours that you may choose to book or pay for whilst you are on our tour are not part of your tour arrangements provided by us. For any excursion or other tour that you book your contract will be with the operator of the excursion or tour and not with us. We are not responsible for the provision of the excursion or tour or for anything that happens during the course of its provision by the operator. You accept that the prices quoted for optional activities are approximate as local prices can and do change. Any of the optional activities listed are not necessarily endorsed or recommended by Madventure. You also accept that you undertake any activity at your own risk and your participation is your own decision and does not form any part of your contract with Madventure. Madventure does not take responsibility for cancellations, unreliability of services or safety of operators, agents or contractors.

21. Whilst a tour is in progress you will at all times be expected to act in accordance with all reasonable instructions from us and/or the tour leader. We may exclude you from the tour or any part thereof at any time (including during the tour itself) if we are of the opinion that you are likely to prejudice the good order, discipline or safety of the tour, including as a result of failing to comply with the tour leader’s instructions, breaking any law or regulation of any country where the tour takes place or failing to adhere to the tour code of conduct, provided that we exercise our discretion reasonably in this regard. In such an event you shall reimburse to us any reasonable costs, losses or expenses which we incur or suffer as a result of our decision to exclude you from the tour, and Madventure shall cease to have any responsibility to/for you. No refund will be given for any unused services.

22. By completing the booking form you confirm that you appreciate the risks involved in the tour and that you do not suffer (or have ever suffered) from any pre-existing medical condition that may prevent you from actively participating in the tour other than those that have been declared to us. It is your responsibility to ensure that you are medically fit enough to undertake the tour and to ensure that you have received the necessary vaccinations and medications (and taken them as prescribed by your doctor) relevant to the destination country. Unless informed otherwise in writing we will assume that you are in good health and are not aware of any reason why you may be unsuitable to take part in the tour. We recommend that you consult your doctor before making a booking to ensure that you are medically fit and are fully aware regarding the immunizations and medical issues related to your destination countries. If you have any pre-existing medical condition, illness or disability, are undergoing medical treatment or, since entering into the contract, develop any medical condition, illness or disability or undergo any medical treatment; you will give us full particulars at the earliest opportunity and at the latest sixty (60) days before the departure date. If it is later discovered that a pre-existing condition was not declared within the specified time, and such condition would, if we had knowledge of it, have led to our refusal to accept or to cancel your booking, we reserve the right to withdraw you from the trip without any refund or recompense. In such an event, you shall reimburse to us any reasonable costs, losses or expenses which we incur or suffer as a result. In the event of you being withdrawn from a tour, no refunds will be given and we will not be responsible for (and you agree to indemnify us against) any costs, claims, losses and expenses arising including costs of repatriation, eg. flights and legal expenses. By agreeing to these conditions, you provide your consent to us and our insurers obtaining your medical records should we consider it necessary. You will be responsible for any charges for the provision of the information. We reserve the right to inspect your vaccination book at any time and to withdraw you from the tour in the event that you have not received and/or taken all the requisite inoculations and/or medication. If the information provided by you is incorrect and we discover that the correct information affects your suitability to take part in the tour, we may terminate the contract and withdraw you from the tour without refund or recompense, including during the trip. You agree and acknowledge that certain activities undertaken whilst you are on the tour may be inherently hazardous and have risks associated with them. You agree to abide by all instructions given to you whilst you are on the tour and you acknowledge that we cannot be held responsible for any injuries that may arise as a result of you failing to comply with such instructions.

23. You must be covered by personal travel insurance to undertake any Madventure tour. We recommend you take out a travel insurance policy that covers you fully against the cost of tour cancellation by you or by Force Majeure, medical care and repatriation should you become too ill to continue and above all covers you against the cost of air evacuation should sickness or injury necessitate such a course of action. You should also note that passenger liability insurance covering vehicles, particularly in third world countries, may be inadequate. It is therefore important that your travel insurance cover makes sufficient provision for your dependents in the event of an accident. Please note however that we have no control over the availability or standard of medical and repatriation services and facilities in the areas we visit and these do not form any part of our contract with you. Please remember that many of the areas we visit are not as developed as the UK and the availability and standard of such services may well be lower. Please read your travel insurance policy details carefully and take them with you when you travel. It is your responsibility to ensure that the insurance cover you purchase is suitable and adequate for your particular needs. We do not check individual insurance policies for suitability.

24. It is understood that on the Madventure tours where we use our own expedition vehicles the sections of the tour that travel through Europe, USA, Canada and Mexico are provided to you free of charge. You will not have to pay any additional fee to travel through Europe, USA, Canada and Mexico with us but it is understood that we do not operate for hire and reward in these areas. We do this purely as a legality in order to operate our specialised overland vehicle in these areas legally.

25. Privacy & Data Protection – we shall ensure that appropriate security measures are in place to protect your personal data (as defined in the European GDPR act 2018 and the UK Data Protection Act 2018) and we do not store our customers financial details. When you make a booking, you do however consent to all the information you provide being passed on to our suppliers, agents, subcontractors, employees or volunteers whether based inside or outside of Europe for the purposes of us providing you with the tour.

26. By agreeing to these terms and conditions you consent (unless otherwise stated on your application form) to our staff taking photographs and or video footage of you during the tour and that these images may be used by us for publicity and training purposes including, but not limited to, brochures, websites, marketing material and in the media.

27. We shall be entitled to novate or assign the contract or any part of it to any third party. You shall not be entitled to assign the contract or any part of it. This contract is made on the terms of these conditions, which are governed by English law, and subject to the provisions of condition you agree to the exclusive jurisdiction of the English courts. If any of these conditions is found by any court or other competent authority to be wholly or partly unfair or unenforceable the validity of the rest of the booking conditions and the rest of the condition in question shall not be affected and shall remain valid and enforceable to the extent permitted by law. A reference in these conditions to a statute, convention or regulation shall be as a reference to that statute convention or regulation as amended, re-enacted or extended at the relevant time. The headings in these conditions are for convenience only and shall not affect their interpretation. Where the context otherwise requires, words importing the singular meaning shall include the plural meaning and vice versa and words denoting the masculine gender shall include the feminine and neuter genders. Where the context so admits, words denoting persons shall include natural persons, companies, corporations, firms, partnerships, limited liability partnerships, joint trips, trusts, voluntary associations and other incorporated and/or unincorporated bodies or other entities (in each case, whether or not having separate legal personality) and all such words shall be construed interchangeably in that manner.

28. The information given on the website, on social media, in newsletters, in the brochure and other literature supplied is given in good faith but no warranty is given that it is correct.

29. No servant, agent or authorised representative of Madventure has authority to commit Madventure to any liability whatsoever and Madventure will not be bound by any statement or representation unless it is in writing and signed by one of the directors.

30. ABTA – We are members of ABTA, membership no. Y6801 . We are obliged to maintain a high standard of service to you by ABTA’s Code of Conduct. We can also offer you ABTA’s scheme for the resolution of disputes which is approved by the Chartered Trading Standards Institute. If we can’t resolve your complaint, go to www.abta.com to use ABTA’s simple procedure. Further information on the Code and ABTA’s assistance in resolving disputes can be found on www.abta.com

31. Financial Protection – In accordance with the UK Package Travel & Linked Travel Regulations 2018, Directive (EU) 2015/2302 or the local applicable law in the country of residence of the passenger(s) booking with Madventure Ltd are fully protected for the initial deposit and subsequently the balance of all monies received by us, including repatriation costs and arrangements, arising from cancellation or curtailment of your travel arrangements due to the insolvency of Madventure Ltd.

The respective laws according to the country of residence of the passenger(s) usually only requires us to provide cover for Package & Linked Travel Arrangements, there is no requirement for Financial Protection of day trips or single elements, and none is provided unless the local law requires such. If you have questions on this then please contact Madventure Ltd.

Madventure Ltd has taken out an insurance provided by International Passenger Protection Ltd (IPP) with Liberty Mutual Insurance Europe SE (LMIE) trading as Liberty Specialty Markets, a member of the Liberty Mutual Insurance Group. LMIE’s registered office: 5-7 rue Leon Laval, L-3372, Leudelange, Grand Duchy of Luxembourg, Registered Number B232280 (Registre de Commerce et des Sociétés).  LMIE is a European public limited liability company and is supervised by the Commissariat aux Assurances and licensed by the Luxembourg Minister of Finance as an insurance and reinsurance company. This insurance is only valid for passengers who book and pay directly with/to Madventure Ltd.

In the event of our insolvency please make contact as soon as practically possible giving full details of what has happened quoting the name of your Travel Operator:

For UK & Worldwide excluding EU Passengers

IPP Claims at Sedgwick

Telephone: +44 (0) 345 266 1872

Email: [email protected]

or online at http://www.ipplondon.co.uk/claims.asp

For EU Passengers

Telephone: +31 103120666

Email: [email protected]

or online at https://www.ipplondon.co.uk/claims.asp

PRE-DEPARTURE INFORMATION

Personal budget & travel money.

Personal budget

We recommend a budget of £150 – £200 per person per week to live comfortably during this tour. This budget should cover day to day things like lunches, snacks, soft drinks, the odd few beers, etc.

Souvenirs are something that can be very cheap or very expensive so if you are going to be buying souvenirs you should budget for it.

Please also have a look at our Optional Excursions list as you may want to budget for a few of those activities too.

Travel money

We recommend you bring all of your spending money on your credit/debit card as they generally accept cards everywhere in Iceland.

ATM’s are also widely available for you to draw local currency using your credit/debit card.

To keep your money/credit cards/ipod/camera/laptop safe you may want to consider purchasing a ‘Pacsafe Travelsafe’ product. They offer various size portable anti-theft bags that can be attached to the vehicle when travelling and also attached to any immovable object when off the vehicle.

VISAS & PASSPORTS

Below is general information and recommendations regarding visas and passports. Visas are ultimately your own responsibility to obtain and visa requirements may vary according to your nationality and place of application, so use the information below as a guide only. Madventure is in no way responsible for obtaining your visas or passports.

Most nationalities do not require a visa to visit Iceland. 

Some nationalities may require a Schengen visa to visit Iceland so if you are unsure please check with your closest Icelandic embassy.

Please ensure you have 1 free page in your passport in order to accommodate any stamps and ensure your passport is valid for at least 6 months after the tour end date.

VACCINATIONS & MEDICAL

Vaccination requirements are constantly changing so we recommend you seek the latest professional medical advice at least 8 weeks before departure to ensure you allow yourself enough time to obtain all necessary vaccinations. Nomad Travel’s website has up-to-date information on vaccinations and other general medical advice, and they also administer vaccinations at their Travel Clinics in various locations within the UK.

www.nomadtravel.co.uk

Alternatively speak with your local Health Professionals for current accurate information. You will need to make an appointment with your GP or Travel Clinic and take a list of the countries you are visiting and the approximate dates when you will be there.

Medically fit and able

You need to be in good general health for this tour and be reasonably fit and able. The main concern is that everyone is able to pitch in equally and do their fair share when it comes to group activities like packing gear in and out of the 4×4’s, erecting the cook tent, setting up the kitchen, etc. You will also be pitching your own tent and setting up your own sleeping gear. You do not need to be super-fit by any means and all ages are welcome. We always attract a very broad age range on these expeditions, from people in their 20’s through to people in their 70’s.

Please inform us of any medical conditions that you have before departure so that your crew know how to deal with a medical situation if it should arise. All information will be kept confidential unless you request us to inform your fellow travellers. For example, it may be wise to inform fellow travellers if you are allergic to something like bee-stings so they know what to do if you get stung.

First aid kit

We carry a comprehensive first aid kit aboard one of the vehicles but it is recommended that you bring your own basic first aid kit for general use.

TRAVEL INSURANCE

It is compulsory that every person who travels with Madventure obtain travel insurance for the complete duration of the tour. Proof of travel insurance must be shown before joining a tour.

There are various travel insurance companies to choose from and a Google search will bring up a selection but we recommend a London based company named Campbell Irvine, www.campbellirvine.com +44 20 7938 1734. They are familiar with what we do so mention our name and the tour you are travelling on and they should be able to provide excellent cover for you.

For people based in North America a company called Allianz offers good cover – www.allianztravelinsurance.com +1 866 884 3556.

If you choose to obtain your travel insurance through another company please ensure you read the small-print and make sure you are covered for Medical Repatriation.

WHAT TO BRING

Tent: A good quality lightweight, compact, waterproof & windproof tent is recommended for this tour. If you are travelling on your own you are restricted to a 1-2 man sized tent. If you are sharing a tent, you are restricted to a 2-3 man sized tent.

Sleeping bag: Any good quality 3 or 4 season sleeping bag will be fine but one with a ‘Mummy Hood’ is a good idea for the times that it will be cold. Please make sure that your sleeping bag has a ‘crush bag’ so it can be compacted down.

Sleeping bag liner: A Thermal Fleece or Silk Liner will bring your sleeping bag up a season for times when it’s cold.

Roll Mat: A compact inflatable Thermarest roll mat is recommended. A non-compact mat will not be permitted as they take up too much room.

Pillow: If you do wish to bring a pillow (most people just bring a pillow case and stuff their fleece in it at night) then Thermarest makes a good stuff pillow that compacts down small.

Backpack/sports bag/suitcase: We recommend you carry your luggage in a backpack but irrespective if you prefer a sports bag or a suitcase you are restricted to a maximum 100 litre volume. 

Day bag:  You are also permitted to bring a day bag with a maximum 40 litre volume.

Pacsafe: to keep your money/credit cards/ipod/camera/laptop safe you may want to consider purchasing a ‘Pacsafe Travelsafe’ product. They offer various size portable anti-theft bags that can be attached to the vehicle when travelling and also attached to any immovable object when off the vehicle.

Kindle: optional but great to keep all your travel guides and books in 1 place.

Ipad/Tablet: not a necessity but most places have WiFi available these days so having your own Ipad or Tablet will enable you to stay connected.

Smartphone :  It is highly recommended that you bring a smartphone with you as the majority of the tour communications are sent via WhatsApp. It is also very convenient for storing all your digital documents, emailing, taking and sharing photos, mapping and calling home. 

Camera: completely up to you but most people bring one.

Toiletries: available everywhere but start with some toilet paper, toothpaste, toothbrush, dental floss, deodorant, soap and shampoo.

Sunblock: a minimum SPF 15 recommended.

Sunglasses: polarised lenses offer great protection.

Towel: a microfiber travel towel is a good option as it dries quickly and packs down small.

First aid kit: only a basic one is recommended but should include plasters, antiseptic cream, bandage, pain relief tablets, scissors and safety pins.

Passport: Please ensure you have 1 free page in your passport in order to accommodate any stamps and ensure your passport is valid for at least 6 months after the tour end date.

Clothes & shoes:  

1 x flip flops

1 x walking shoes, trainers or boots

4 x underwear

1 x thermal underwear

1 x thermal gloves

4 x t-shirts

1 x lightweight long sleeve top

1 x fleece top or fleece jacket

1 x wet weather jacket

1 x wet weather trousers

2 x zip-off  trousers which can be worn long or short

1 x thermal beanie or woolly hat

1 x baseball cap

1 x swimwear

NITTY GRITTY

At Madventure we like to go through every aspect of the tour with you to ensure that you are as informed and prepared as possible. We believe in giving you the nitty-gritty details as well as the obvious highlights as in our opinion these are just as important. We want to explain the tour in as much detail as possible so you know what to expect and be sure you are suited to one of our adventures. If after reading this, you decide that this tour is not for you then as long as it is within 14 days of your initial booking you can cancel your booking and receive a full refund of your deposit.

The following may sound a little negative at times but it’s just so we are secure in the knowledge that we have provided you with as much information as possible, the good and the bad, to ensure everybody is completely aware of exactly what type of tours we run for the benefit of you, us and your fellow travellers. There is nothing worse than having someone booked on the tour when it is not what they wanted or expected. You need to know what you are in for and be able to handle it because at times you will be exposed to all the elements and you will be camping the whole way!

Medically fit & able: You must be medically fit and able to ensure you can participate in all aspects of the tour including pitching your own tent, carrying your bags to and from the vehicles, assisting with setting up the cook tent, walking around the sites we visit, etc. You do not need to be super fit by any means but if you want to do the longer walks you do need to be reasonably fit.

When things go wrong: Please be prepared to expect the unexpected and accept that things will go wrong from time to time. These instances are usually the stories that remain with everyone so enjoy the experience. An easy-going approach will help the situation immensely. Moaning about every little thing that doesn’t go our way will not!

Attitude & Group Living: An easy-going attitude will help you enjoy this tour and ensure you are liked by your fellow travellers as well as the locals. The one thing that is extremely detrimental to any tour is your common ‘moaner’. It has nothing to do with age, gender or nationality, it just matters that although they signed up for a 16 day camping tour ‘in theory’ they cannot cope ‘in practice’ and it’s always got to be someone’s fault. It sounds a bit harsh but by weeding out any moaners early on we can have a chat with them and ensure your tour is as good as it can be. 

We have no age restrictions and if there is one thing we have come to realise, through experience, is that it’s the mental attitude that counts the most and a broader age range is better on this tour as it stops the stereotyping – the more in the mix the better.

There will be parties and there will be quiet nights. There are no set rules and it always sorts itself out depending on the individual personalities of who’s on board.

Laziness and selfishness will also be spotted early on so we advise everyone to pull their weight. We can guarantee that at some stage during the tour you will have to just fit in and go with the flow when it’s not what you personally wanted to do. When situations arise where we can’t please everybody we always aim to please the majority of the group, not the individual.

Please be aware that if any particular person is constantly causing the rest of the group (or the crew) grief due to their behaviour they will be warned and then asked to leave the tour if nothing improves and no refund will be given. This is obviously the most extreme situation but we will not let one or two disruptive individuals spoil it for everybody else. Everybody knows the score from the start and this is for everyone’s benefit. Usually everybody on our tours has a relaxed approach and everybody gets on very well.

Drive times, routes & itineraries: We are driving around Iceland in a restricted time frame, so yes, there are going to be drive days but we have designed this tour so that not many of them will be long. This is quite a relaxed tour but on the longer drive days you must be able to take pleasure in the scenery or a good book from time to time.

It is unlikely to happen but sometimes we do have to alter our route slightly and the itinerary may have to be changed due to unforeseen circumstances.

Delays: We always strive to arrive at our destinations on time but if we experience any delays we will adjust our itinerary accordingly.

Drugs & alcohol: Please be aware that drugs such as marijuana and cocaine are illegal in Iceland and they enforce severe punishment for being caught in possession. NEVER carry illegal drugs on your person or on the vehicle during this tour as you would not only jeopardise your own freedom but also the well-being of the entire group if you are caught in possession.

If you are caught with any kind of illegal drugs on this tour, regardless of the amount, you will be asked to leave the tour immediately and no refund will be given. Any inconsideration can lead to the tour being cancelled and innocent people arrested. We will not hesitate to remove someone if we have to.

Aggressive or abusive drunk behaviour will not be tolerated during this tour and if anyone is constantly abusing alcohol and causing trouble we will not hesitate to remove them from the tour and no refund will be given.

Your Crew: You will have a crew of 1 tour leader and 1 driver on this tour. On some tours we may also have a cameraman who is there to help market our tours and update our social media.

Your tour leader will be in charge of routes, itineraries, food and accommodation and will ensure the smooth running of the tour. Your tour leader is not a tour guide and will not be giving you the history and facts of every place we visit, you can look up that information yourself or hire a local guide when you want to . Apart from the odd optional excursion that needs to be organised in advance, we leave most of that for you to arrange yourselves, this way ensuring you get to do what you want at the price you are happy to pay.

Your driver will drive and maintain the vehicle to a high standard but he/she is not a tour guide and may not know all the facts about Iceland.

Your crew will be hand-picked and trained by Dragoman and will have experience of overland travel but they may or may not have done this tour before. They will, however, have detailed notes from previous tours and backup from the office in the UK.

Tipping: Tipping the crew at the end of your expedition is always appreciated if you feel they have done a good job. As this is a budget tour we recommend you tip your crew a minimum of £50 each at the end of the tour. Thank you.

CONTACT US TODAY

Your Name (required)

Your Email (required)

Your Mobile (required)

Your Message

For more on our travel offers, click these links to the many services we offer – North and Central America Budget Group Overland Adventure Tours  –  North & Central America Adventure Tours  –  North & Central America Budget Tours  –  North & Central America Group Tours  –  North & Central America Overland Tours  –  South America Adventure Tour  –  South America Budget Overland Group Adventure Tour  –  South America Budget Tour  –  South America Group Tour  –  South America Overland Tour – African Adventure Tours  –  Africa Budget Tours  –  Africa Group Tours –  Africa Overland Budget Group Adventure Tours –  Africa Overland Tours –  5 Stans Budget Overland Group Adventure Tours  – 5 Stans Adventure Tour –  5 Stans Budget Tour –  5 Stans Group Tour  – 5 Stans Overland Tour-  Adventure Tours – Central Asia Overland Tours  –  Central Asia Adventure Tours –  Central Asia Budget Overland Group Adventure Tours –  Central Asia Budget Tours  – Central Asia Group Tours – Iceland Overland Budget Group Adventure  –  Iceland Adventure Tour  –  Iceland Budget Tour  –  Iceland Group Tour  –  Iceland Overland Tour  –  India, Nepal, Bhutan, Bangladesh & Pakistan Budget Group Overland Adventure Tours  –  Middle East Budget Overland Group Adventure Tours – Silk Road Budget Tours  –  Silk Road Adventure Tours  –  Silk Road Budget Overland Group Adventure Tours  –  Silk Road Group Tours –  Silk Road Overland Tours  –  Gap Year Tours – Overland Tours   –   Saudi Arabia Adventure Tours –  Saudi Arabia Budget Overland Group Adventure Tours –  Saudi Arabia Budget Tours –  Saudi Arabia Group Tours –  Saudi Arabia Overland Tours –  American Budget Overland Adventure Tours – Africa Budget Overland Adventure Tours – 5 Stans & Central Asia Budget Tours – Silk Road Overland Tours – Central Asia Overland Tours – Silk Road Group Tours – Central Asia Group Tours – Iceland Overland Budget Tour – Silk Road Budget Tours – Central Asia Budget Tours – Gap Year Adventure Tours – Budget Overland Adventure Tours – Overland Tours – About Adventure Travel – Adventure Tours

Madventure Ltd. 10 Ablett Close Oxford, OX4 1XH United Kingdom

TELEPHONE +44 7712 225 438

WHATSAPP +44 7712 225 438

EMAIL [email protected]

IPP FINANCIAL PROTECTION

Copyright Madventure 2023 / UK company no. 6809461 / VAT no. 947398564 | All Rights Reserved | ABTA | FINANCIAL PROTECTION | TERMS & CONDITIONS |

• ISTANBUL TO TOKYO
• BEIJING TO AMMAN
• AFRICA ENCOMPASSED
• ISTANBUL TO ALMATY
• ISTANBUL TO BEIJING
• CHINA, TIBET & NEPAL
• KATHMANDU TO KOLKATA
• KATHMANDU TO ISLAMABAD
• KATHMANDU TO AMMAN
• PAKISTAN KKH
• PAKISTAN, AFGHANISTAN & IRAN
• NAIROBI TO CAPE TOWN
• MOROCCO TO CAPE TOWN
• MOROCCO TO GHANA
• GHANA TO CAPE TOWN
• CAPE TOWN TO CAIRO
• CAPE TOWN TO NAIROBI
• KENYA TO CAIRO
• HORN OF AFRICA
• GAMEPARKS & GORILLAS
• CAPE TOWN TO KRUGER PARK
• CARTAGENA TO RIO DE JANEIRO
• CARTAGENA TO SANTIAGO
• SANTIAGO TO RIO DE JANEIRO
• RIO TO MANAUS VIA GUIANAS
• RIO TO RIO VIA GUIANAS
• NORTH KOREA GROUP TOUR
• NORTH & SOUTH KOREA TOUR
• N & S KOREA & JAPAN TOUR
• SOUTH KOREA & JAPAN TOUR
• SOUTH KOREA GROUP TOUR
• JAPAN GROUP TOUR
• CHINA, TIBET & NEPAL TOUR
• ARABIA OVERLAND
• SAUDI ARABIA 11 DAY TOUR
• SAUDI ARABIA 15 DAY TOUR
• 24 March 2025 – 11 August 2025
• 23 March 2026 – 10 August 2026
• 07 July 2024 – 19 January 2025
• 06 July 2025- 18 January 2026
• 03 November 2024 – 25 September 2025
• 24 March 2025 – 10 June 2025
• 23 March 2026 – 09 June 2026
• 7 April 2024 – 7 July 2024
• 7 July 2024 – 3 August 2024
• 5 August 2024 – 11 September 2024
• 04 August 2025 – 10 September 2025
• 5 August 2024 – 19 October 2024
• 04 August 2025 – 18 October 2025
• 05 August 2024 – 19 January 2025
• 04 August 2025- 18 January 2026
• 30 September 2024 – 11 November 2024
• 29 September 2025 – 10 November 2025
• 30 September 2024 – 18 October 2024
• 29 September 2025 – 17 October 2025
• 7 July 2024 – 19 January 2025
• 17 June 2024 – 30 Aug 2024
• 16 September 2024- 29 November 2024
• 08 November 2024 – 21 January 2025
• 03 November 2024 – 02 April 2025
• 03 November 2024 – 17 January 2025
• 18 January 2025 – 2 April 2025
• 31 March 2024 – 19 September 2024
• 31 March 2024 – 9 July 2024
• 10 July 2024 – 19 September 2024.
• 24 July 2024 – 1 September 2024
• 11 June 2024 – 9 July 2024
• 31 March 2024 – 21 April 2024
• 21 October 2024 – 28 February 2025
• 6 October 2025 – 13 February 2026
• 21 October 2024 – 2 January 2025
• 6 October 2025 – 16 December 2025
• 1 January 2025 – 28 February 2025
• 17 December 2025 – 13 February 2026
• 4 March 2025 – 2 May 2025
• 4 March 2025 – 1 June 2025
• 9 July 2024 – 18 July 2024
• 9 July 2024 – 29 July 2024
• 9 July 2024 – 14 August 2024
• 19 July 2024 – 14 August 2024
• 19 July 2024 – 29 July 2024
• 29 July 2024 – 14 August 2024
• 22 November 2024 – 19 January 2025
• 21 November 2025 -18 January 2026
• 09 November 2024 – 19 November 2024
• 18 January 2025 – 28 January 2025
• 29 March 2025 – 8 April 2025
• 09 November 2024 – 23 November 2024
• 18 January 2025 – 1 February 2025
• 29 March 2025 – 12 April 2025
• 27 July 2024 – 12 August 2024
• ABOUT MADVENTURE
• FINANCIAL PROTECTION
• TOUR REVIEWS
• https://www.facebook.com/pages/Madventure/110358195742438?skip_nax_wizard=true
• https://twitter.com/madventuretour

• Work With Us
• Blogging Bootcamp

• Van Conversion Academy
• Campervan Shop
• Campervan Rentals
• Plan a Trip
• Itineraries
• Destinations
• Responsible Travel
• Family Travel
• Budget Travel
• Scuba Diving
• Travel Credit Cards
• Digital Nomad
• Teach English Abroad
• Blogging Resources
• Income Reports
• Travel Shop
• Meet Katie & Ben
• About Two Wandering Soles
• Personal Stuff
• Portfolio & Press

How to Plan the Ultimate Iceland Road Trip

Home » Blog » Europe » Iceland » How to Plan the Ultimate Iceland Road Trip

Road tripping allows you the freedom to travel like no oth er and is undoubtedly the best way to see all that Iceland has to offer. From vehicle rentals to budgeting to en route entertainment, here is everything you need to help you plan your Iceland road trip.

When it comes to road trips, Iceland is perhaps one of the best countries in the world for hopping behind the steering wheel and taking on the open road.

With drool-worthy landscapes around every corner and more epic “detours” than you can count, taking an Iceland road trip will be up there as one of your most memorable travel experiences. Plus, the driving in Iceland is pretty darn easy – I mean, there’s basically just one main road around the entire country (aka the Ring Road), so you can’t really get lost.

In this guide, we’re covering literally everything you need to know to have the absolute best time on your Iceland road trip. We’ve been to Iceland three times, and have explored by both car and campervan. We’ve gathered all sorts of tips in one place: from essential safe driving advice to tips for shopping in Icelandic supermarkets to how to save money on gas, you can find it all right here!

This guide will get you ready to crank your favorite tunes and roll down your windows (or not, because it’ll probably be chilly outside) and embark on the Iceland road trip of a lifetime!

Iceland Road Trip Planning Guide

Things to know about driving in iceland, rental car vs. campervan, best time of year for a road trip, planning your route, perfect iceland itinerary, road trip budget tips, stocking up on groceries.

• Common road trip mistakes to avoid

Apps to download

• Podcasts and audiobooks
• What to pack

Want to save time and energy on planning?

We’ve traveled to Iceland 3 times now and spent weeks living in a campervan, traveling around the country. We’ve been able to explore a lot of what Iceland has to offer!

We’ve compiled our experience to create the  perfect Iceland itinerary . Our itinerary is for 7-9 days and meant to be explored while traveling in a campervan. It includes the  highlights of the southern coast of Iceland. 

We’ll send you our complete 7-9 day customizable itinerary, filled with tips and advice. Just click below to get your  perfect Iceland itinerary  today!

Driving in Iceland might be different from what you’re used to. There are some important things—really important things, actually—that you need to know before you set off on your Iceland road trip. 

We’re going over everything you should know about driving in Iceland before you get behind the wheel. 

1. Let’s talk about gas, baby!

When planning your Iceland road trip, don’t forget to factor the cost of gas into your road trip budget. Being as it has to be shipped here from overseas, it’s easy to understand why petrol is a bit more expensive in Iceland. However, you’ll want to prepare yourself for the first time you pull up to the pump and see prices nearly quadruple what you might expect to pay in somewhere like the US. 

During our most recent trip to Iceland (August 2021) the price of gas in Iceland was 225.8 ISK per liter ($1.75 USD). That works out to be just shy of $7 USD per gallon. Yikes!

Gas stations in Iceland will generally be open 24 hours a day, however you should expect the building to be closed overnight and no attendants. This means you can only fill up after hours if you are paying with a card. Which brings us to our next point…

Some of the gas stations in Iceland required us to type in a PIN number to authenticate the credit card transaction. If you’re like us and using a US-based credit card, you won’t have a PIN. This presents a problem when you’re alone at night and there are no attendants on duty to manually run your card inside. For this reason we suggest bringing a back up debit card (with a PIN) to use at the pumps if this happens. 

And on that note… Don’t let your tank run dry! Once you get outside of Reykjavík and venture off the Ring Road, there can be lonnnng stretches of highway where you don’t see another sole. You don’t want to wind up stranded in a place like that with an empty gas tank. Fill up often and don’t let your tank get below ¼ if you can help it! 

2. Watch your speed!

This is an important one. (Be sure you read it!)

While driving in Iceland, you’ll want to be extra cautious about your speed. For safety reasons, obviously, but also to avoid the speed traps and hefty fines that go along with a speeding ticket .

There are speed traps set up all over the country (mostly around Reykjavik and popular tourist areas) with cameras that’ll detect your speed and flag you if you’re over the limit. If you’re not paying attention, you might never notice them, but before every camera there is a blue sign to warn motorists like the one pictured.

It’s also good to know that all tunnels in Iceland have at least one speed camera (if not more!), so be sure you follow the 70-kilometer speed limit in tunnels.

Always go by the posted speed limit signs, but here is the general rule of thumb:

• 90 km per hour on highways (Nowhere in Iceland are you allowed to drive faster than this. And this is only 56 m.p.h. so it may seem a bit slow to those of us who are used to driving on highways in the US)
• 80 km per hour on gravel roads
• 70 km per hour in tunnels

3. Turn your headlights on

You may not be in the habit of turning your headlights on while driving in the middle of the day, but in Iceland it’s the law. All drivers must have their headlights on while driving (any time of day) for your safety as well as other drivers as it can get quite foggy. 

If you don’t have the automatic lights function on your vehicle, just remember to turn your lights off everytime you park. We accidentally left ours on and drained our battery, and it was quite the adventure trying to find someone with jumper cables. 

Tip: Pack this portable jumper set (yes, you can fly with it!) as we found most rental cars didn’t come equipped with jumper cables. 

4. How to navigate single-lane bridges

If you are driving the Ring Road around Iceland , you’ll run into quite a few single-lane bridges, and you’ll need to know how to navigate in the case you wind up there at the same time as another car. 

The general rule to follow is to give way to the car that’s closest to the bridge and wait for them to cross before taking your turn. However, it’s a good idea to slow down just in case that other driver isn’t as prepared as you (and hasn’t read this article!).  

5. Where you can and can’t drive

There are some roads in Iceland that legally require you to have a 4×4 vehicle to drive on. These are known as “F-Roads”. Akin to “fire roads” in the United States, F-Roads aren’t really maintained at all. Not only is it illegal to drive on them with a regular 2-wheel drive vehicle, but you’ll likely get stuck! And insurance certainly won’t be covering anything that happens to your vehicle when you’re driving illegally. 

It’s also worth noting that F-Roads aren’t open all year long. These mountain roads are only open during the summer months, typically June/July – September (or after the first snow). Check the current conditions here .

That being said, be prepared to drive on unpaved roads , even if you are not venturing off into F-Road territory. Of the more than 8,000 miles of roads in Iceland, fewer than 3,000 miles are paved roads. Which means you’ll definitely encounter some gravel. Just pay attention to the reduced speed limit on gravel roads (80 km / hour) and don’t get too close to the vehicle in front of you if you don’t want to risk your windshield. 

On that note… Don’t EVER drive off road. Not only is it illegal to go offroading in Iceland, but driving off the road can cause irreversible damage to the incredibly fragile ecosystem on the volcanic island. Be a responsible traveler , and stick to the roads!

6. What to do at roundabouts

There are tons of roundabouts in Iceland—especially in Reykjavik. And they can be confusing to navigate, even if you’re used to roundabouts at home.

The biggest thing you have to know is that when you’re driving a 2-lane roundabout, the inner lane has the right of way. That means if you are in the outer lane, you must yield to the inside driver at each exit. If you don’t follow this rule and there is an accident, insurance won’t cover you.

7. Be prepared for sudden changes in weather

The weather in Iceland is notoriously unpredictable. There’s a saying in Iceland that goes, “if you don’t like the weather, wait 5 minutes.” If you are planning to spend a long time driving in Iceland, there’s a good chance you’ll run into lots of different weather conditions on the road and it’s best to be prepared. 

Keep up to date with the forecast by checking before your drive. This website breaks down road and weather conditions by region, which is helpful. We also found the Vedur app to be the most consistently accurate when it comes to current weather conditions in Iceland.

And be prepared for winds. Strong winds. With little vegetation or tree coverage to shield the roads, the winds can be brutal while driving in Iceland. Be extra cautious while driving in high winds, watch out for sand and ash and hold the door tight when entering or exiting your vehicle. 

If you are planning your Iceland road trip during the winter months, you’ll want to make sure your rental vehicle comes with studded snow tires (a pretty standard offering in Iceland), and might consider upgrading to a 4×4 vehicle just to be safe.

Ask your rental company if they offer a “Winter Supply Kit” which typically consists of flashlights, jumper cables, a shovel and other winter gear to keep you warm and safe in case of an accident. For more detailed information and driving tips, check out our guide to renting a car in Iceland .

When considering how to get around on your Iceland road trip, you have two standard options; you can rent a car and stay in hotels/ Airbnbs or go tent camping, or you can opt for a campervan rental and bring your accommodation along for the ride. 

We’ve rented cars in Iceland on two separate occasions and also traveled around Ring Road in a campervan. There are pros and cons to each mode of transportation and plenty to consider before making your decision. 

Budget, accommodation preferences, comfortability and travel styles are all important factors to consider. If you are on a tight budget, or prefer to stay in hotel-style accommodation, renting a car may be a better option for you. If you are up for an adventure, don’t mind using public showers and restrooms, but want a more comfortable camping experience, we’d highly recommend renting a campervan!

We’ve gone over the pros and cons of each as well as important information to know about the rental process and costs associated with renting a car or a campervan in two separate detailed-packed guides:

• Renting a Car in Iceland: 14 Essential Tips
• Iceland Campervan Rental Guide (+ Discount!)

Iceland makes for an exciting travel destination year-round and there are unique draws and drawbacks to visiting in every season. When considering the timing of your Iceland road trip, there are a few factors you may want to keep in mind: 

Road closures: F-Roads, which are the unmaintained back roads leading you into the highlands, are only open during the summer months. If you plan to do a lot of hiking or want to get off-the-beaten-path on your Iceland road trip, you may want to consider traveling during the peak season. 

Driving Conditions: How comfortable are you with driving in snowy conditions? If you’re traveling to Iceland from a warm-weather hometown and have never experienced driving in the snow, we’d advise you to reconsider a winter road trip and instead opt for the summertime. 

If you’re an experienced driver in all types of conditions, you can rest assured that car rentals in Iceland generally come equipped with studded snow tires and everything you need to stay safe in all seasons.

What you hope to see: If your sole purpose for visiting Iceland is to catch a glimpse of the illusive Northern Lights, or you cannot wait to photograph puffins while they are nesting, or maybe it’s your dream to get up close and personal with humpback whales as you cruise across the bay… 

All of these activities are possible in Iceland, but unfortunately they all have different seasons and you won’t be able to do/see all of these things during one trip (unless you get crazy lucky). 

We’ve put together a detailed guide on the best time to visit Iceland , which breaks down every season with the unique draws and drawbacks. Give it a read to figure out which season makes the most sense for your Iceland road trip.

So you have big road trip dreams for Iceland, but how do you even begin to plan?!

We like to start our road trip planning process by following 5 simple steps. 

• Decide how many days you have to spend on your trip
• Make a list of all the places you want to go
• Use Google Maps to save the desired locations and begin to work out a general route
• Perfect the route by pruning and primping, factoring in where you’re going to stay
• Create your final itinerary

In order to plan your route around Iceland, you’ll have to first decide how many days you are able to dedicate to your road trip. After visiting Iceland on three separate occasions, we finally came up with what we think is the perfect 7 day Iceland itinerary for your first visit. 

A single week is a good amount of time to get a solid taste of what Iceland has to offer, including some of the highlights like Reykjavik, the Golden Circle and some of our favorite hot springs and waterfalls.

• Perfect 7 Day Iceland Itinerary
• Ring Road Iceland: Stops You Can’t Miss
• Golden Circle Iceland: The Ultimate Guide

Things to do in Iceland

If you have more time than just a week, GREAT! There are so many more things to do in Iceland you could road trip for a month and still not get bored. Here is a good list of highlights to get you started…

• Explore the Golden Circle : Sort of a rite of passage on most visitors’ first trip to Iceland. This route encircles three major attractions: Thingvellir National Park, Gullfoss Waterfall and Geysir, as well as some pretty neat off-the-beaten-path attractions. 
• Soak in some incredible hot springs : Being that Iceland is known for its geothermal activity, it should come as no surprise that there are some pretty epic hot springs you can visit. 
• Hike the Fimmvörðuháls trail: Known as one of the best day hikes in the entire world, the Fimm Hike takes you through lush valleys, across desolate lava fields and past countless waterfalls. 
• Hike a glacier: Of all the incredible hikes in Iceland , our glacier hike was one for the books, and certainly a bucket list worthy experience if you can make it happen.
• Chase waterfalls : Waterfalls are to Iceland like chocolate chips are to a cookie… okay maybe that’s a stretch of an analogy, but you get the point. They are everywhere and some of them are totally worth going out of your way to spot. 
• Try Icelandic cuisine : Step out of your comfort zone and indulge in the local flavors to get a glimpse into the culture and how locals live.
• Explore Reykjavik : While small in size, Reykjavík is packed with spunk, charm, and fun things to do. 

We could go on… But we’ve actually already compiled a list of best things to do in Iceland with all the details you need to have these experiences for yourself.

Where to stay

When planning your road trip route around Iceland, another thing you’ll need to consider is where you’re going to stay. 

If you’re renting a campervan, you’ll want to check out some of our favorite campsites in Iceland and plan your route based on where you can camp.  

If you’re not going the campervan route, hotels in Iceland can get pretty expensive. Instead, we’d recommend staying in Airbnbs to cut down on costs and give yourself a more home-y feel. 

We’ve rounded up a highly curated list of the best Airbnbs in Iceland — from budget-friendly, to the most unique accommodation, to some seriously incredible properties! This list includes the top places to stay in Iceland, as well as some hostel and hotel recommendations as well in case you want to mix it up a bit. 

Our top tips for staying in an Airbnb in Iceland:

• Book Airbnbs with a kitchen so you can cook meals. This will help you save money so you don’t have to eat out for breakfast, lunch and dinner each day.
• Set your filter to find places with a private hot tub–your sore muscles and aching joints will thank us later after you’ve spent a day hiking!
• Check to take sure there is onsite parking or space to leave your vehicle overnight.
• Is there laundry? On a road trip, it can be helpful to book an Airbnb with a washer and dryer every once in a while so you can do a load of laundry. Nobody likes to stink up their car!

For more tips, we have loads of info on how to book Airbnbs , red flags to watch out for when booking, and the exact filters we use when booking.

Raise your hand if you don’t want to spend hours of time researching and you just want all the info right at your fingertips!

If your hand is up, keep reading…

If you want to save some hours of your life, we’ve already put in more than enough for you and us combined.  Trust us.

And we’re happy to share everything we learned  — from digging through reviews, Youtube and all sorts of Internet rabbit holes, as well as actually traveling  in  Iceland on 3 separate occasions.

We’ve put together the perfect Iceland itinerary for your first visit. This itinerary includes day-by-day instructions, photos and tips that will help you plan your road trip through southern Iceland and the iconic Golden Circle.

In this 7-9 day itinerary, you’ll find:

• Can’t miss sights and experiences 
• suggestions for what to order
• the best campsites to stay on the route
• unique stays along the way
• Insider Tips
• Suggestions for extending this trip

We’ve spent hours of research putting this all together, just for you!

In full transparency, this is a  paid itinerary  since it has taken an incredible amount of time for us to create. 

However, we keep all of our paid itineraries affordable –  just  $17 for an entire 7-9 day itinerary . We think this is an incredible value considering almost all your planning will be done for you!

The hard truth is, Iceland is notoriously expensive and we’d be lying to you if we said anything different. Unless you’ve got a bottomless bank account (lucky you!), you’ll probably want to set some sort of budget for your Iceland road trip.

This will vary from traveler to traveler depending on your style. For some, your road trip budget might be more or less a target to aim for, but you’ve got flexibility. And for others, it’s a strict number that you’ll need to be very mindful of the entire trip.

Whichever sounds like you, setting a budget is important. Especially in a country as expensive as Iceland. 

If you know anything about us, you’ve probably picked up on the fact that we are very detailed when it comes to documenting our travel budget and expenses. This means we’ve broken down exactly how much a trip to Iceland will cost you along with plenty of sneaky budget tips and insider info to help you plan Lucky you!

Whether you’re road tripping in a car or living in a campervan in Iceland, you’ll want to stock up on groceries before you hit the road. There’s nothing that makes you hungrier than sitting in a car for hours on end…am I right?? 

We can tell you from firsthand experience that grocery shopping in Iceland can be a little overwhelming if you’re not equipped with some tips and knowhow. That’s why we put together a handy little guide to navigating supermarkets in Iceland – from the average price of some staple items to supermarkets with the best prices, we’ve got you covered.

Mistakes to avoid when planning your Iceland road trip

Take it from us, we’ve made plenty of road trip mistakes over the years. We’ve learned our lessons and we want to pass on our tips to you to help you avoid the potentially costly mistakes while road tripping in Iceland. 

1. Not giving yourself enough time

It can be tempting to pack as much as possible within your given time frame, but we’d strongly encourage you to plan your Iceland road trip with a bit of “buffer time”.

When you’re planning your route from behind your computer screen, it can be easy to see 6 hours of driving time and think, well that’s not too bad. But when you’re on the road, even a few hours can be exhausting and have you itching to get out of the car and stretch your legs!

You may plan to spend 2 hours hiking into one of the best Iceland hot springs , only to get there and realize your aching joints need more time to soak than you realized. Or maybe you allotted just 45 minutes for an epic hike, but when you get there, you realize it’s a 45 minute hike one-way, and it’ll take you another hour to see the sights and get back to your car. 

As you’re planning, take into account that things might go wrong. Bad traffic or a flat tire might delay you. Or maybe the weather turns dangerous when you have an epic hike planned, and you want to stay an extra day.

2. Sticking to your route EXACTLY

After planning a road trip route, you might feel the need to follow it exactly. But we’d advise otherwise… 

Sometimes the best road trip stops are the unplanned adventures off the main road and into that cute little harbour-side town or a quick pull over on the side of the road that turns into a hike to an unknown viewpoint. 

Give yourself some “wiggle room” in your itinerary for the opportunity to get lost and explore some hidden gems along the way.

3. Not planning ahead during busy season

Sometimes the busy season is the only time you have to travel. We’ve certainly been there.

If you’re traveling to Iceland during the summer months, be sure to spend a little extra time planning:

• Book your accommodation further in advance.
• Research hidden spots and how to get away from the crowds.
• Budget a little more money.
• Plan to start your days earlier than you typically would.

4. Forgetting to download Google Maps offline

There are long stretches of road in Iceland where you’ll find very little cell signal. Depending on where you’re driving (especially if you’re going through the highlands), cell service might be patchy at best. So you’ll want to download anything you need on your phone before you set off on your road trip.

While you have Wifi, download the offline version of Google Maps for the regions you’ll be driving through Iceland. This also goes for all your podcasts, music, and audiobooks too.

Even if there is good cell service, your data might go quickly if you’re constantly streaming music and directions.

How do you Download Google Maps Offline?

It’s super simple, just follow these steps:

• Sign into Google Maps (it’s connected with your Gmail account).
• Search for a destination in the search bar. (Example: “Reykjavik” or “Snæfellsnes peninsula”)
• You’ll see a white bar that pops up at the bottom of the screen. You may need to swipe right to find the “download” icon.
• Make sure you’re connected to WiFi, and click the “download” icon.

The map data from this region will now be on your phone, and can be accessed even when you have no cell signal! You’ll even be able to see your current GPS location as long as you have it authorized. (Settings > Google Maps > Location > select “Always”)

5. Forgetting you get carsick

Motion Sickness is a pain in the ass, but it can be dealt with if you prepare. Don’t worry, I’m right there with ya! I like to pack a little “kit” to help prevent nausea when on road trips. This will come in handy on the long and sometimes winding roads in Iceland, trust me . 

• pressure point bands
• ginger chews
• sparkling water
• trash bag (in case of emergency)

Also, it goes without saying, but try to avoid reading or looking closely at your phone screen, especially on winding roads. 

If you’re feeling sick, the best thing to do is stop the car and get yourself some fresh air. Sometimes that’s all it takes to get your system back on track. 

And remember to take it slow and be patient. Carsickness happens to the best of us!

You can read about more common road trip mistakes and tons of other tips in our road trip planning guide . 

When hitting the road in Iceland there are plenty of factors to keep in mind such as traffic, weather, and directions. How many times have you heard that you missed your exit and have to drive twice as far to double back? 

Don’t worry though. As they say…. There’s an app for that. In this case, there are a few apps for Iceland road trips that we’d recommend downloading to take the frustration out of navigating, help with road trip planning, and enjoy the ride without any hiccups.

Here are some of essential apps for road tripping in Iceland:

• Vedur: Ask any local and they will tell you the only weather app they trust is Vedur. 
• Google Maps: Make sure you download the offline version of our route while you’re still connected to Wifi!
• Bensin: Location nearby gas stations and see up to date pricing before you arrive at the pump. This app is a game-changer on an Iceland road trip. 
• SafeTravel: The best way to check road conditions in Iceland with up to date information. 
• Parka: Use this app to pay for parking in specific locations around Iceland, including downtown Reykjavík, Skaftafell National Park, and Geldingadalir Volcano.

We have a whole article on the best Iceland travel apps that goes into more detail on each one and why we think it’s worth a download.

En route entertainment

If you’re like us, one of the first things we plan when going on a road trip is which audiobooks we want to listen to and which podcasts to download for our enroute entertainment. We put together some of our top recommendations in case you’re looking for something new to listen to.

• Where the Crawdads Sing by Delia Owens: One of my favorite reads from 2020. A beautifully-descriptive coming of age tale about how society is quick to judge and misunderstand those deemed “outsiders”. It also reads like a love letter to nature.
• A Walk in the Woods by Bill Bryson: This funny account of one man and his ill-prepared companion’s attempt to hike the Appalachian Trail. A humorous and adventurous quick read.
• You are a Badass by Jen Sincero: If you need a little motivation right now (I’m with ya!), Jen will give you the kick in the pants you need to stop doubting yourself. It reads like you’re talking to a good friend.
• Whatever You Do, Don’t Run: True Tales of a Botswana Safari Guide by Peter Allison: A collection of personal stories recounting hilarious and sometimes terrifying tales of life living in the African bush as a safari guide, coming face to face with some of the fiercest wild animals, and managing the hordes of camera-toting tourists. 
• Shantaram by Gregory David Roberts: The thrilling story of an escaped convict who flees a maximum security prison in Australia, fleeing to Bombay with his guide and companion, where they can disappear forever in the criminal underworld.

If you like these recommendations and want more, we have an entire list of books for travelers – broken out by category, from memoirs to fictional travel stories. 

• Favorite Episodes: Mr. Hodges, All in the Family
• Favorite Episodes: Lonely Planet, Patagonia, Burton, AWAY Luggage, Canva
• Science Vs. (Gimlet Media): Dives into hot button topics and major political issues (from essential oils to immigration) and goes over the FACTS of both sides of the argument, while incorporating humor. 
• Favorite Episodes: Brownie Lady, The Chase (interview with a “professional” streaker)

What to pack for your Iceland road trip

Packing for a trip to Iceland is tough (the weather changes all the time!). But don’t worry, we’ve got you covered with a  super detailed packing list  so you know exactly what to bring. 

In this  free Iceland packing list PDF download , we’ve provided packing checklists for everything from clothing and toiletries (for both women  and  men!) to what shoes to pack and extra medicines you may want to have on-hand just in case.

Plus, we’re sharing tons of packing hacks and tips for traveling in Iceland that you won’t find anywhere else!

Are you planning a trip to Iceland?

We have TONS of resources on travel in Iceland and how to make the most out of your trip. Check out our  Ultimate Iceland Travel Guide  for all the answers to your most burning questions, or read some of our favorite articles below.

• Perfect Iceland Itinerary
• Renting a Car in Iceland: Essential Tips
• Ring Road Iceland: Can’t Miss Stops!
• Iceland Campervan Rental Guide (+ Exclusive Discount!)

Save this article on Pinterest for later!

We want to hear from you!

Do you have any more questions about planning your Iceland road trip? Leave your comment below and we’ll do our best to get you the answers you’re looking for!

Comments (2) on “ How to Plan the Ultimate Iceland Road Trip ”

Thank you so much for your amazing tips for Iceland! I will be traveling there soon as well, while 5 months pregnant, like you did. Where did you find your nice outdoor maternity clothing?

Hey Annelies, it’s such a great place for a Babymoon! None of my clothes were truly maternity clothes – which I actually like because I can wear them after pregnancy too. I have a few pairs of Lulu Lemon Align leggings which are high waisted and I LIVED in them while pregnant (and wore them a lot in Iceland), and I still wear them all the time. Not the cheapest, but worth the investment IMO. I also got a pair of water-resistant joggers from Eddie Bauer that I wore on the trip and they worked really well. Then I just wore larger shirts, or athletic ones that became more and more “fitted” as I grew hehe.

Hope that helps. Have an amazing trip!

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

• Trail Reviews
• Field Notes
• Photography

Trek The Hidden Trails of the Icelandic Highlands

February 22nd, 2024

Skyblue Overland may earn a small commission from affiliate links in this article.

The Hidden Trails of Iceland offer a 12-day trek through remote, fairy tale landscapes. You’ll link up with the iconic Laugavegur Trail to experience breathtaking views on one of the coolest hikes imaginable. Get ready for an epic adventure unlike any other.

Hiking the Hidden Trails of Iceland – $3750

The Hidden Trails of Iceland is one of the most epic hiking adventures you will ever go on. What better way to enjoy adventure than by going on one of the coolest hikes you can imagine. This 12-day trek takes you through remote trails, woven between landscapes that make you feel like you’re walking through a fairy tale story. Eventually you will link up with the famous Laugavegur Trail, where you’ll see some of the most far-reaching landscapes you have ever come across.

This adventure will take you on a journey more than 80 miles through vast deserts of black sand, past the stunning rhyolite mountains, turquoise lakes, and even lava fields. Throughout this amazing adventure, you’ll spend your nights relaxing and sleeping in mountain huts. The varying weather conditions will have you experiencing all four seasons within just a few hours! This trip is an awesome adventure for those looking to challenge themselves.

Iceland is a common tourist destination for obvious reasons. It is simply stunning, with unique and magical landscapes sprawling farther than you can imagine. With 57hours’ guided tour, you will leave civilization and all the tourists behind, and venture into your near two week trek underneath the never-setting Iceland sun. 57hours finds the best local guides to work with, drenching your experience with the best insider-knowledge possible. Your local guide will provide great info on the best photo-ops, hidden local treasures, and lead you through the most epic landscapes you will likely ever see.

The landscapes along the Hidden Trails of Iceland make Yellowstone look like your boring backyard. Yeah, it’s that great. You’ll travel across volcanic terrain, over rivers and past glaciers. On this trip, you get to hike all day through varying landscapes, relaxing in authentic Icelandic mountain huts. Some nights you’ll even be able to sleep under sleeping volcanoes. This trip is a really unique opportunity to explore areas of Iceland not usually accessible by tourists.

This adventure begins in Reykjavík, remote journeying through Iceland’s Highland region before linking up with the famous Laugavegur trail — known as one of the most beautiful hikes in the world — all while sleeping in mountain huts over twelve days. You’ll hike past colorful rhyolite mountains, geothermal features, turquoise lakes, and bubbling hot springs, through black desert sands, secret valleys, and lava fields, to end in the green valley of Thórsmörk — the place that owes its name to the God of Thunder. It is truly the epic adventure of a lifetime.

Adventure Talk – The Hidden Trails of the Icelandic Highlands

In this adventure talk, local AIMG Icelandic adventure guide and photographer Alberto Ojembarrena will share all the details of hiking in this remote wonderland on some of the country’s most spectacular and truly hidden trails. If you’ve ever been wondering about trekking the wilds of Iceland, now’s the time to find out.

Are you ready for the hike of your life? Rainbow mountains, lava fields dotted with obsidian, and roaring geothermal features — Iceland looks out of this world. See landscapes straight out of a Sci-Fi movie through the lens of a local AIMG guide and photographer, Alberto Ojembarrena. Tune in for an hour, venture off the beaten path and witness epic photo-ops of this 12-day hike on the Hidden Trails of Iceland.

Watch the 57hours Adventure Talk,  Discover the Hidden Trails of the Icelandic Highlands,  here:

About Alberto Ojembarrena

Alberto (AIMG Mountain & Glacier Guide) is the owner of Amarok Adventures and has guided adventure treks in Iceland, Greenland, South America and Nepal. He has also worked as a documentary and travel photographer for international magazines. He has lived in Iceland since 2015, traveling the country discovering hidden gems and loads of adventure off the beaten path — always with his camera in tow.

About 57hours 

57hours is an guided outdoor adventure company founded on the idea that we must make the most out of the 57hours between Friday afternoon Sunday night. These hours are wide open for adventure. This should be a time you experience with your family and friends, reconnecting to yourself and to nature. With that mission in mind, 57hours began their journey of establishing spectacular guided adventures all around the world. The Icelandic Highlands are the most out-of-this-world place you’ll ever step foot in. With landscapes straight out of a science fiction movie, it’s like being transported to another planet.

Skyblue Overland Strongly Recommends That You Enroll With Global Rescue Prior To Embarking On Your Next Adventure.

With more people outside now more than ever, Global Rescue expanded services to include field rescue within 100 miles of home. With Local Field Rescue — automatically included in any travel protection services membership — Global Rescue is there whether you’re hiking, kayaking, snowmobiling, fishing or simply enjoying the outdoors and get ill or injured and you’re unable to get to safety on your own.

Purchase a Global Rescue membership for your next adventure and travel with peace of mind. Single trip, annual and family options are available.

Learn More!

More Adventures

Guided backpacking tours in olympic national park.

Trek through Olympic National Park’s mountains and coastline on multiple trails, taking in rivers, lakes, waterfalls, forests, tide pools, and cliffs. Hike for 4-5 days surrounded by 280-foot-tall trees in a picturesque atmosphere.

Read More →

Planning the Perfect Adventure Trip to Hood River,…

Hood River, Oregon offers a perfect mix of water and mountains for enthusiasts of outdoor activities. Known as the “windsurfing capital of the world,” it also caters to art lovers, wine connoisseurs, and food enthusiasts.

Take a Road Trip this Summer in the…

Escape the city this summer and quench your thirst for adventure with these 20 road trips in the Northeast and Mid-Atlantic regions. From Philadelphia, you can reach all these exciting locations within a day’s drive. Get ready for…

Thanks for submitting!

iceland X   PRIVATE 4x4 super-TRUCK tours

This is the ultimate travel experience for families and groups of all sizes, and the beauty is that however large the group, you always have the privacy of your own vehicle. In fact, you can start the trip right from the airport, or take a day or two to adjust before you start your expedition.

Icelanders modify their 4x4 vehicles with the aim of making rough highland routes and cruising on glaciers possible most of the year.

IcelandX offers a variety of chauffeured or self-driven but guided trips. So, you can have the experience of driving these monsters yourself in Iceland’s rugged highland routes, or sit back and enjoy this unusual, but luxurious way of travel with one of our expert guides at the wheel.

PRIVATE SUPER-TRUCK VALLEY OF THOR (Thorsmork)

8-10 HOURS from $475 PER PERSON

Price based on 4 passengers.

PRIVATE SUPER-TRUCK NORTHERN LIGHTS 3-HOUR EVENING TOUR

You and your private driver will embark

on a hunt for the Aurora Borealis.

Duration - 3 Hours

$225 Per Person

Destination - The most optimal viewing points based on weather predictions for Northern Lights viewing.

PRIVATE SUPER-TRUCK HOT WATER & VOLCANO ADVENTURE (Landmannalaugar)

PRIVATE SUPER-TRUCK THE ENHANCED GOLDEN CIRCLE

Gulfoss, Geysir and Thingvellir make up this Golden Circle route. Depending on weather and conditions your guide will take you on some off-road tracks on the way for some real super jeep adventure! 

8-10 HOURS from $475 Per Person

PRIVATE SUPER-TRUCK SNAEFELLSNES

This 1-day adventure brings you to the beautiful peninsula Snaefellsnes which is home to waterfalls, rock formations, beaches, historic villages, and Jules Verne type folklore.

2-DAY SNAEFELLSNES TOUR

This 2-Day adventure gives you more time to visit the beautiful peninsula Snaefellsnes which is home to waterfalls, rock formations, beaches, historic villages, and Jules Verne type folklore.

2-Days – FROM $995pp (based on 4 passengers)

PRIVATE SUPER TRUCK SOUTH SHORE WATERFALLS & GLACIERS

Europe's largest glaciers, majestic waterfalls, black volcanic beaches and boundless views.

Duration - 8-10 Hours

$365 Per Person

Destination - Skogarfoss, Seljalandsfoss, Vik

The destination for an adventurous glacier lagoon tour on a Zodiac boat where you'll get close as possible to Europe’s Largest Glacier.

From $999 per person(based on 4 per vehicle) Modified SUV

Duration - 2-Day

Destination - Seljalandsfoss, Skógarfoss, Vatnajökull Glacier, Fjallsárlón Lagoon

2-DAY  SUMMER GLACIER LAGOON, DIAMOND BEACH, ZODIAC BOAT TOUR

2-DAY  WINTER GLACIER LAGOON, DIAMOND BEACH, ICE CAVE

Visit Europe’s largest glacier Vatnajökull and visit one of Iceland’s natural wonders; the Vatnajökull ice caves.

From $999 per person(based on 4 per vehicle)

Modified SUV

Destination - Seljalandsfoss, Skógarfoss, Vatnajökull Glacier, Jökulsárlón Lagoon

• Blog Request A Brochure -->

Welcome to Adventures Overland!

India’s leading and multiple award-winning “luxury adventure” travel company pioneering in organising self drive road trips around the world..

Ultimate Flexibility

Embark on multiple Self-Drive expeditions across the world with flexible dates, Group Size and complete logistic support.

Memorable Experiences

We craft unparalleled and timeless experiences tailored for the Road Trip enthusiast within you who loves hitting the open road.

Quality at our core

We provide our participants with a world-class experience with top-tier vehicles, Most Luxurious Properties and dedicated crew support.

Award winning Support

Since 2020, AO has achieved consecutive victories in the prestigious World Travel Awards , in the Best Tour Operator Category.

FIXED DEPARTURES

Scroll through our list of self-drive expeditions and buckle up for the ride.

• Around the World
• Road Trips in India

Iceland Expedition

7 Nights / 8 Days

Supercar Drive - South of France 2024

Namibia Road Trip

8 Nights / 9 Days

Road To London 2024

64 Nights / 65 Days

Mongolia Overland

10 Nights / 11 Days

Supercar Drive – The Alps Edition- Season 3

Road trips in india.

Ladakh Expedition (Via Srinagar)

14 Nights / 15 Days

Lahaul & Spiti Drive

Ladakh Expedition (Via Manali)

Fall head over wheels for these six epic tailor-made, supercar drives.

Swiss & French Alsace

5 Nights / 6 Days

German And Austrian Alps

6 Nights / 7 Days

South of France

Video gallery, indulge in the thrill, adrenaline rush, and inspiration offered by the incredible videos showcasing our numerous driving expeditions from around the world.

Guided Self-Drive Tours I Around The World I Luxury & Adventure I Overland I Driving Expeditions

INDIA TO LONDON BY ROAD I UPCOMING I CROSS BORDER I SELF DRIVE I ROAD TRIP I 2023 I DELHI I MUMBAI

SELF-DRIVE GUIDED ROAD TRIPS IN INDIA, NEPAL & BHUTAN | ADVENTURES OVERLAND

DRIVING THE 8 BEST SUPERCARS IN 5 DAYS | SELF DRIVE I ROAD TRIP IN EUROPE I TRAILER

WORLD TRIP BY ROAD: 2 INDIANS | 90,000 KM | 6 CONTINENTS| 50 COUNTRIES

JORDAN OVERLAND: SELF DRIVE IN THE HIDDEN MYSTERIES OF MARTIAN TERRAIN | WADI RUM | DEAD SEA | PETRA

ADVENTURES OVERLAND

The Great Indian World Trip

Sanjay Madan (Co-Founder & Director)

Tushar Agarwal (Co-Founder & Director)

It is a journey of Sanjay & Tushar , two Indian road trippers in their quest to explore the world and experience new cultures, places and people as they travel across 6 continents, 50 countries and drive over 90,000 kilometres.

In the process, they became the first Indians to drive around the world and also created multiple world records on this unprecedented journey.

NOW STREAMING ON

WE WROTE BOOKS TOO!

The Great INDIAN World Trip

kms travelled

Countries explored, continents crossed, we make worlds travel easy.

Travelling under your own power and at your own pace, you'll connect more meaningfully with your destination and have more fun!

Total Destinations

Happy customers.

Amazing Tours

Testimonials.

Discover captivating tales of Adventures Overland travellers as they traverse the world, sharing fascinating experiences from across the globe

#1 (46 Reviews)

4.7 (198 Google reviews)

4.8 (302 reviews)

Thank you AO for organizing such a lovely and memorable road trip.. the experiences I

Rudra Biswas

Iceland Feb 2023

The attention to detail that the folks over at AO put into every little thing to make

Srivijay Ravi Sastry

RTL Aug 2022

If I had to describe in one word, my experience with Adventures Overland, it would be

Tarana Bindra

Lahaul & Spiti Sep 2022

Had a wonderful memorable road trip…. thanks to Sanjay, Prachur, and team AO

Brazil Nov 2022

Choosing Adventures Overland for the Jordan Expedition is one of my best decisions. W

Potluri Srinivasa Rao

Jordan April 2023

We had been doing very well, and we went on the 4-day trip to a composite where we hu

Giovanni Karl Vaz

Morocco Feb 2023

Great event guys. Made new friends too. Looking forward to some future road trips onc

Kyrgyzstan Dec 2022

It was a beautiful and amazing drive. The cars were just out of the world and I felt

Sagar Maheswari

Supercar Drive - July 2023

Adventures Overland surpassed all expectations with their exceptional organization an

South Africa May 2023

Adventure Overland shows an entire new dimension of traveling. They provide the best

Rasalika Maskara

Ladakh June 2023

What a wonderful time we had together, amazing memories were created once again. Ever

Nishita Sarvaiya

Adventures Overland overturned my inhibitions and ideas on group travel. Their whole

Prithivi Yashini

Morocco April 2023

Excellent curation of places to visit. They were highly receptive to each guest’s n

Harshavardhan T

South Africa- May 2023

For those who love driving, and exploring places, and for whom the roads are a “

Rachna Chhatwani

Jordan March 2023

I am still in that Nostalgic feeling of our trip, adventures, learning, understanding

Kalpana Chitnis

RTL Oct 2023

Thank you Adventures Overland for introducing us to 1/3 rd of Kyrgyzstan 😍 can’t

Golda Ponraj

Guys thanks a lot for such a great time and amazing memories. Made some great friends

Hey guys, It’s been a fun-filled road trip, and going back with lovely memories. Fo

I’ve had the pleasure of being a part of Adventures Overland. Mr. Sanjay, Mr. Tusha

Lahaul & Spiti June 2022

One of the most thrilling, challenging, and rewarding journeys I have had so far! Eve

First time trip with most unknown people and my first time with Adventures Overland.

Deepesh Agarwal

Iceland Mar 2023

Thank you, Sanjay and the AO team for dishing out an amazing and memorable experience

I was very excited about the Morocco road trip. I was looking forward to having a nic

It was a great experience to be there in the middle of the Sahara, especially in that

Amandeep Sinola

Hi, team Adventures Overland 🥂 and all participants @Morocco…It was my pleas

Adventures overland – South Africa garden route was meticulously planned with t

Vikash Mantri

It was a very well-curated trip, meticulously planned & executed with great prec

Rohini Vijayan

Ladakh 2023

What a wonderful way to experience Ladakh! Adventures Overland took care of the minut

Nidhi Luharuwalla

Ladakh Jun 2023

I traveled with AO in the epic Road to London and drove the Europe belt. It was an am

Swati Saraogi

RTL April 2019

What an experience it is to travel with team AO. Went to Jordan with them in 2022 and

Rishika Gupta

Jordan Nov 2022

This was our first trip to Spiti with AO and feel very confident saying it won’

Lahaul & Spiti June 2023

Tushar and Sanjay are visionaries in the true travel space. Going on a road trip with

Priyanka Bakhru

Jordan March 2022

I must say that the group trip to ICELAND I recently went on was simply amazing! I wa

Aaditya Kashyap

Iceland Oct 2023

I am out of words, I don’t know if my review will do justice, the Ladakh Expedition

Monisha Karnani

Ladakh Sep 2021

What an Epic trip the Super Car Drive turned out to be!! AO you have surpassed every

I couldn’t imagine doing it in a better set of cars. And the fact that we got t

Excellent tour with awesome people. Very much enjoyed the road trip to Jordan differe

Manoj Peshavaria

Dear friends, Thank you all for a wonderful road trip filled with memories of a lifet

Thank you Sanjay and Tushar for making this crazy dream of ours come true. Finally, I

Hemang Thakker

Very a very beautiful and Adventurous journey, I would love to go again with AO to ne

Suman Aggarwal

The warmth that Tushar & Sanjay give off from the first day itself, rubs off on

Sia Sarvaiya

Lahaul & Spiti July 2022

Adventures Overland is one of a kind. We were lucky to have Tushar, Sanjay, Shailin,

Anand Lakshmanan

Changed me from a Tourist to a Traveller!!. The only word I have is “Amazing

Sachin Bansal

Thanks for Adventures Overland! We went to Iceland in a convoy of 6 cars, and it was

Amazing experience. The team is not just your friends, they are your Jeannie. Seeing

My experience with Adventures Overland has been one to remember for life. I was on th

Utkarsh Agarwal

Ladakh July 2021

When it comes to road trips, it’s Adventure Overland only. This company gives a new

Ladakh July’21 was a 15-day dream road trip and am still dreaming and driving away�

Anita Patel

What a stupendous Ladakh trip we had in June, organized by Adventures Overland group.

Dr Ashok Kumar Mathur

The 2-week driving expedition to Leh Ladakh was an absolute joy from start to finish.

Sunita Varadarajan

I and my 72-year-old father went to Ladakh with Adventures Overland and were simply b

Ankit Mathur

Thanks a lot, everyone for your wonderful company and some awesome moments. Catch you

Ranjeet Damodar Thakur

Thanks, Friends for the lovely company and the amazing journey. Wish to see you all s

Absolutely fantastic! And we were so comfortable on the roads with the car. So it was

Yogesh Manek

Hello 👋 we are off on a flight back home… would like to thank you Sanjay and

Zakkir Ahmed

Speechless!! Excellent. The perfect combination – group travel, excellent organ

Nooruddin Kantawalla

Ladakh 2021

TRAVEL BLOGS

Read all about road trips from around the world.

People we meet on the road

War, Peace, and Northeast: How a Soldier Made Us Realize the Price of Freedom

Kashmir to Kanyakumari: Two women, a red Skoda, and the countless lives that were forever changed

International road trips

Chasing Lost Trails of the Khan: A road trip through the best of Mongolia

Why choose adventures overland.

Embarking on a journey with Adventures Overland is like diving into a world of excitement, exploration, and limitless possibilities. We are a community of like-minded people who have one true love; road trips. 

Our services encompass meticulously planned overland expeditions that cater to both the thrill-seekers and the wanderers-at-heart. Whether you're a solo traveler or looking to bond with family and friends, we have something extraordinary for everyone.

Picture this: You're seated in a custom-fitted 4x4 vehicle, wind in your hair, as you journey through the majestic mountains and lush valleys. Our experienced guides, who double up as storytellers and local experts, will take you off the beaten path, unveiling the heart and soul of each destination. No stone goes unturned as we curate self-drive road trips that ensure a perfect blend of adventure and cultural immersion.

With Adventures Overland , you won't just see the world; you'll live it.

International Road Trips:

• Road to London: The epic road trip where we drive from India to London by road in a span of 59 days, covering 22 countries. 
• Super Car Drive: Our Super Car Drives are all about you and the fleet of your dreams i.e. McLaren, Ferrari, Lamborghini, and more exploring the best of Europe.
• Jordan Overland: Jordan Overland is a self-drive tour where we conquer desert trails, indulge in adventure activities, and experience the best of Jordan . 
• Iceland Expedition: The Iceland Expedition is all about conquering icy terrains, witnessing the northern lights, and exploring the breathtaking scenery of Iceland in a sturdy 4x4 vehicle. 
• Brazil Overland: In the tropical escapade that we like to call “ Brazil Overland ”, we traverse the iconic route of emotions, dive into the Amazon rainforest, party with locals, and more.
• Morocco Overland: The Morocco Overland starting from Merrakesh is all about sand dunes, sunsets, and steering wheels. From the snow-kissed peaks of the High Atlas to the spice-scented souks, this overland drive is your ticket to a whole new world.
• Kyrgyzstan Overland: A road trip that takes you through the land of nomads and into endless adventures, our Kyrgyzstan Overland drive is full of mystical experiences. Witnesseagle hunters in action, feast on delectable cuisine, and more.

Road Trips in India: 

• Ladakh Expedition: The Land of High Passes is best explored on 4 wheels and that’s exactly what we do on our Ladakh expeditions as we explore Ladakh via two of the most iconic routes. Ladakh via Manali and Ladakh via Srinagar , both of which have their own charm. From conquering the high-altitude passes to discovering hidden gems, we do it all.
• Lahaul and Spiti Expedition: Our Lahaul & Spiti Expedition is all about traversing wicked Himalayan trails, ticking off all the attractions, and making sure that by the time the road trip ends, you have an entirely new definition of thrill. 
• Northeast Expedition: The ultimate adventure in India’s Northeast where you get to traverse winding roads and peel back the curtain to find hidden gems as you explore Ziro Valley, Majuli, Meghalaya, and more in your 4x4 beast.

Here’s what you get: 

• Guided Expeditions: Adventures Overland's guided self-drive expeditions are the epitome of immersive travel experiences, led by seasoned experts who unravel the hidden gems of each destination, ensuring that every moment becomes a cherished highlight of your adventure.
• Luxury Road Trips: Adventures Overland sets the gold standard for luxury road trips , providing travelers with top-notch experiences. Picture yourself cruising through the scenic Italian countryside in a sleek sports car or exploring the rugged beauty of Iceland in a luxury 4x4. These journeys combine high-end comfort with breathtaking destinations, creating travel memories like no other.
• Global Destinations: Adventures Overland offers an array of remarkable global destinations to explore , such as the mystical landscapes of Iceland, where you can chase the Northern Lights, or the rugged terrains of Kyrgyzstan, where you can experience nomadic traditions firsthand. These road trips around the world promise an enriching blend of adventure and cultural discovery.
• Customer Reviews/Testimonials: Adventures Overland stands out as an exceptional choice for travelers due to the overwhelmingly positive feedback received from thousands of adventurers. These testimonials highlight our commitment to delivering unforgettable and well-organized self-drive road trips that consistently exceed expectations.
• The option to choose: Adventures Overland provides travelers with a unique blend of options, allowing them to embark on road trips tailored to their specific desires through customized itineraries, or join fixed departure tours for a convenient and well-organized exploration of diverse destinations, ensuring an unforgettable travel experience.
• Explore More: Provide a button or link to explore all available expeditions and road trips.
• What are Guided Self-Drive Expeditions? Guided Self-Drive Expeditions with Adventures Overland are meticulously planned journeys where participants explore stunning destinations in their own vehicles while receiving expert guidance. 
• Are these road trips suitable for beginners? Our road trips cater to all levels of experience, making them suitable for beginners and seasoned travelers alike. 
• What destinations do you offer? We offer a diverse range of destinations, including but not limited to Iceland, Jordan, Morocco, Brazil, and Kyrgyzstan. We also organize the iconic Road to London trip that covers 22 countries which is epic on its own.
• What's included in a Luxury Road Trip package? Our Luxury Road Trip packages encompass premium accommodations, gourmet meals, and exclusive experiences, ensuring a comfortable and memorable journey. 
• Can I customize my expedition or road trip? Yes, you can fully customize your expedition or road trip to meet your preferences and requirements.
• Do I need to bring my own vehicle? Participants are welcome to bring their vehicles, but we also offer rental options for added convenience.
• How do I book an expedition or road trip? Booking is easy through our website, where you can choose your desired expedition and follow the booking process.
• What safety measures are in place during expeditions? Safety is our top priority, and we have comprehensive measures in place, including experienced guides, medical support, and well-equipped vehicles.
• Can solo travelers join your expeditions? Solo travelers are encouraged to join our expeditions and form lasting connections with like-minded adventurers.
• How can I get in touch with your team for more information? For more information, reach out to our team through our website contact us via phone at 9911599811, or drop us an email at [email protected]

FEATURED IN

COLLABORATORS

Subscribe to Our Monthly Newsletter.

Subscribe to our Newsletter.

The AO promise

Curating and enabling incredible on-the-road experiences that are unlike anything else you can find.

100% Safety

Safety is paramount. We ensure that you are safe and secure across all terrains.

Anything but basic

If it’s not extraordinary, we either won’t do it or we’ll find a way to make it so.

Sustainability

It’s impossible not to love and care for the land with these amazing adventures.

• First Name *
• Last Name *
• Phone Number *
• Choose Your Journey * -Choose Your Journey- Morocco Overland 2024 --> Iceland Expedition 2024 Supercar Drive - South of France 2024 --> Namibia Expedition 2024 Road To London 2024 South Africa Overland 2024 --> Mongolia Overland 2024 North East Expedition 2024 --> Ladakh Expedition (via Srinagar) Lahaul & Spiti Drive 2024 Ladakh Expedition (Via Manali) Supercar Drive - Season 3 2024 Jordan Overland 2024 Scandinavia Overland 2024 Brazil Overland 2024 Kyrgyzstan Overland 2024
• Captcha validation failed. If you are not a robot then please try again.

Quick Links

Follow us on.

© 2023 ADVENTURES OVERLAND. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED | PRIVACY POLICY

• Vehicle Builds
• Gear We Use
• Overlander Network
• Overlanding Blog Overlanding Blog

Who Is Expedition Overland?

XOVERLAND is an award-winning team of adventure travelers sharing through video, their exploration of some of the world’s most remote places and inspiring others to go on their own adventures.

New Services & Content

XOVERLAND believes that overlanding is not just a journey, but a way of life, and you’re invited to join in on this incredible adventure. Together, let’s explore the world, discover new horizons, and become the best versions of ourselves.

Inside XOverland

Bite-size videos designed to show you the happenings in the XOVERLAND Hangar!

XOVERLAND Network YouTube

Out And About

Join Tanner and the crew from the trail as we discuss ideas and tips and tricks that we have learned.

Bite-size videos designed to equip and educate you to confident explore the world!

the XOVERLAND Podcast

The place to learn about all things overlanding and get inspired with the confidence to go do it.

Browse Episodes

About XOVERLAND

Many amazing people are needed to make XOVERLAND run. XOVERLAND includes a core team who serve the creative, production, online store, and day-to-day administrative needs. Expedition teams vary—we assemble cast and crew based on each trip’s unique needs and challenges.

Featured Gear

onX Offroad Membership

MyMedic – MyFAK Pro

XOVERLAND Edition Offroam Mount

DMOS Nomad Shovel

What We’re Up To

XOVERLAND Exclusive: We Put the 2024 Toyota Tacoma Trailhunter to the Test

Until recently, vehicle manufacturers didn’t supply off-the-lot options for overlanders, so we’ve adapted by modifying vehicles to suit our needs. Little did we know Toyota secretly developed the solution many have been waiting for—the Tacoma Trailhunter, a rugged new platform designed for overlanders to “go far.” Expedition Overland has filmed [...]

Africa: A Look Back at How to Navigate the Unknown While Overlanding (as a Family)

Last summer, the XOVERLAND team embarked on an expedition to Africa for the first time. A stark difference from the Nordic countries of Season 5, Southern Africa brought the team into vast landscapes, extremely remote locations, and days in between supplies, which was a major juxtaposition from our previous expedition [...]

2023 Overlander’s Holiday Gift Guide

Whether you’re an overlander with years of experience or hitting the trail for the first time, this collection of our “Top Ten” lists of overlanding gear and accessories is sure to help improve your kit.

the latest and greatest videos

What Makes Expedition Overland Possible?

Our media partners help pave the way…

Presented By

Official Vehicle Sponsor

Official Apparel Partner

In-Part Sponsors

Expedition Support

Grab the free Adventure Checklist complete with a packing list and bonus 3-day meal planner so you can get started today!

You’ll receive follow-up emails from Expedition Overland. You can cancel at any time and your information will not be shared with anyone else.

• Service + Language
• Compare Trips
• Student stories
• Parent stories
• Leader stories
• trip gallery
• Our Leadership Style

Meet Our Leaders

• Apply To Lead
• Open Arms Fellowship
• Leader Portal
• Our Commitments
• Request A Catalog
• Attend A Presentation
• Request References
• Risk Management
• Expectations & Communication
• Food & Allergy
• Financial Aid & Scholarship
• Payment & Travel Protection

Carefully crafted trips since 1984

THE PREMIER SUMMER ADVENTURE CAMP FOR KIDS & TEENS

Summer hiking trips for 4th to 12th graders, choose your next adventure.

Overland’s trips take our students on a journey of growth and discovery. Focused on safety, and free of screens, Overland is wholesome, adventurous, and fun.

featured trip

BERKSHIRE ADVENTURE

With a wide range of fun outdoor activities, Berkshire Adventure is a great introductory hiking trip for our youngest students.

Grades 4 - 6

New England Explorer

Explore Massachusetts’ Berkshire Hills, Vermont’s Green Mountains, New Hampshire’s White Mountains, and Maine’s famous coast.

Grades 6 - 9

Rocky Mountain Expedition

Over two weeks, we’ll backpack, raft, and summit a 14er. Standing at over 14,000 feet, we’ll look back on accomplishments, laughter and smiles.

Grades 9 - 11

Alpine Challenge

Hike the best of the Alps—across the Bernese Oberland, below the Matterhorn, through deep green valleys and over Alpine passes.

Grades 10 - 12

Four Levels, One Goal

There’s a reason families return to Overland year after year: at every level, our trips offer thoughtful planning, appropriate challenges, and supportive groups.

Adventure Grades 4-6

Berkshire Adventure

View Trip ›

Explorer Grades 6-9

Alaska Explorer

Expedition Grades 9-11

Alaska Expedition

Challenge Grades 10-12

FORTY YEARS OF SUMMER ADVENTURE

SUPERB LEADERSHIP, HIGH STANDARDS, & ROCK-SOLID VALUES

For four decades, families have trusted Overland to create nurturing environments where their children thrive.

carefully crafted trips

Every Overland trip offers thoughtfully planned itineraries full of adventure.

exceptional leaders

Capable and caring, Overland’s leaders are role models of the highest order.

FOCUSED ON SAFETY

Overland is accredited by the nationally recognized American Camp Association.

phone & Internet Free

Overland offers supportive, wholesome experiences free of phones and screens.

Role Models of the Highest Order

Capable and caring, our leaders focus on creating supportive and wholesome groups.

The Best of the Best

Overland’s Leaders

Our talented leaders have one goal: the success of each of their students. This, perhaps more than anything else, has made the difference for us as a summer adventure camp and for the forty thousand students who have joined us.

Far More Than Just A Summer Experience

Four Decades of Adventure

The Overland story is best told by our families, students, and leaders.

“Words cannot describe the intimate dynamic of an Overland trip…

something I crave every day I am not on a trip or visiting my Overland friends. At Overland, everyone is important and everything that we do is as a team. Such a supportive and collaborative environment is hard to find anywhere else. I am so grateful for the long-lasting connections that I made on my trips!”

Beyond the bounds of single summer

The sky is the limit

Families witness the growth born out of an independent experience and age-appropriate challenges.

“In sending our kids to Overland, our goal was for them to become adventurous, acquire independence, confidence and leadership.

We also wanted them to be exposed to different cultures and experiences which would stretch them beyond their comfort zone.”

Apurva and Seema

Aditi & Krisha’s Parents

More than counselors or guides

Nurture and inspire

Overland leaders are role models of the highest caliber – and love what they do.

“I believe leadership is being able to love and care for all of the team members…

I’ve learned that leadership does not only rest on the “leader.” In a team, we all can and should lead. This summer, I’ll strive to empower and encourage ownership in each and every team member over our summer adventure!”

Ninco PYRENEES EXPEDITION

Apply for trip

view catalog

info sessions

talk with us

Advertisement

Supported by

Belching Volcano and Flowing Lava Dent Tourism in Icelandic Region

In a country that relies heavily on visitors, hotels faced repeated evacuations, and one resort was temporarily shut.

• Share full article

By Emma Bubola

Reporting from London

The Blue Lagoon resort in the south of Iceland is a scenic network of steaming azure pools surrounded by dark rocks, where tourists dip in the geothermal water, have spa treatments and enjoy what the resort advertises as “a universe of radiant well-being.”

But last week, a stream of radiant lava burst from a crater a few miles from the resort, forcing it to evacuate hundreds of guests, in yet another eruption of a volcano system in the Reykjanes Peninsula that had been dormant for 800 years.

The outbursts began in 2021, and the eruptions and earthquakes in the peninsula have destroyed some houses and forced villagers from their homes. One construction worker went missing in the town of Grindavik after falling down a crack caused by an earthquake.

The effects of the volcanic eruptions have rippled out beyond the peninsula, disrupting the tourism operations of a country that relies heavily on visitors.

Arnar Már Ólafsson, director general of the Icelandic Tourist Board, said that when a looming volcanic eruption led to the evacuation of Grindavik in November, it resulted in global anxiety that brought a drop in tourists.

“A spouting volcano doesn’t sound very inviting,” he said.

Icelandair, the country’s national airline, said it also saw a “significant negative impact on bookings” in the last months of 2023. And the low-cost Icelandic airline Play said that news of the eruption “cooled demand for Iceland as a destination.”

The tourism board did not release an estimate for the financial losses, and the airlines, while saying they experienced significantly slowed sales, did not quantify them.

Airline officials and the tourism board director stated emphatically in interviews and in the national news media that the reaction was unwarranted because the eruptions did not represent a direct threat to visitors or flights. They accused the news media of “alarmism.”

“In the international press, it just looks as if Iceland is ruined,” Birgir Jónsson, then Play’s chief executive, said in an interview published in December by a financial magazine.

Tourists used to flock to the Reykjanes Peninsula to watch the northern lights or bathe in the waters of the Blue Lagoon resort. But since the November earthquakes, the Blue Lagoon has had to close for some days . It said in a statement on Wednesday that it had also shut down from March 16 until at least Thursday and would continue to follow the authorities’ safety guidelines.

The Northern Light Inn, a family-run hotel, has also had to evacuate its guests four times since January and close for weeks, said Fridrik Einarsson, the inn’s owner. Now, they are compensating for the drop in tourists by serving lunches to the construction workers building protection walls in the area.

“If this continues for a long period of time, it will eventually be very, very challenging for us ,” Mr. Einarsson said.

Mr. Ólafsson said that any threat to the Blue Lagoon geothermal resort undermined a key component of Iceland’s tourism sector.

“Without the Blue Lagoon, it would be a different destination,” he said, “like Egypt without the pyramids or Paris without the Eiffel Tower.”

The resort is particularly popular with visitors from the United States, and every year, hundreds of thousands of people visit the spa, according to the Blue Lagoon’s website. The spa is now protected by barriers.

The resort owes its existence to the geothermal energy generated by the volcanic system, which heats up its waters. But that same system is also now its main threat.

That paradox, many say, is at the heart of Iceland’s identity as an adventure travel destination where tourists seek out untamed nature in the form of waterfalls, glaciers and hot springs. And 130 volcanoes.

During the volcanic eruptions last year, as tourists flocked to sites where they could see the glowing river of lava, the government had to warn people to steer clear of the area since the situation could turn dangerous.

Now, Icelandic tourism operators say, the anxiety has eased somewhat, and tourism demand has gone up again since January. But for those remaining in the peninsula, there seems to be no immediate end in sight to the disruption of their businesses.

Last week, as Mr. Einarsson, the inn owner, evacuated his guests to another hotel because of the volcanic eruption, he said they could see lava from the parking lot.

“It’s quite a magnificent experience, to see a volcano,” he said.

Mr. Einarsson called his relationship to volcanoes a “tricky love and hate situation.”

On one hand, he said, “people are understandably concerned to stay in a hotel next to an eruption site.” On the other, he said, people come to Iceland for its nature, and the nature would not be the same without the country’s volcanoes.

“And I would not be in the business,” he said.

Egill Bjarnason contributed reporting from Gran Canaria, Spain.

Emma Bubola is a Times reporter based in London, covering news across Europe and around the world. More about Emma Bubola

Volcano in Iceland erupts for fourth time in three months

A  volcano in Iceland  erupted Saturday evening for the fourth time in three months, sending orange jets of lava into the night sky.

Iceland’s Meteorological Office said the eruption opened a fissure in the earth almost 2 miles long between Stóra-Skógfell and Hagafell mountains on the Reykjanes Peninsula.

The office had warned for weeks that magma — semi-molten rock — was accumulating under the ground, making an eruption likely.

Hundreds of people were evacuated from the Blue Lagoon thermal spa, one of Iceland’s top tourist attractions, when the eruption began, national broadcaster RUV said.

No flight disruptions were reported at nearby Keflavik, Iceland’s main airport.

The eruption site is a few miles northeast of Grindavik, a coastal town of 3,800 people about 30 miles southwest of Iceland’s capital, Reykjavik, that was evacuated before the initial eruption in December. A few residents who had returned to their homes were evacuated again Saturday.

Grindavik was evacuated in November when the Svartsengi volcanic system awakened after almost 800 years with a series of earthquakes that opened large cracks in the ground north of the town.

The volcano eventually erupted on Dec. 18, sending lava flowing away from Grindavik. A  second eruption  that began on Jan. 14 sent lava toward the town. Defensive walls that had been bolstered after the first eruption stopped some of the flow, but several buildings were consumed by the lava.

Both eruptions lasted only a matter of days. A third eruption  began Feb. 8. It petered out within hours, but not before a river of lava engulfed a pipeline, cutting off heat and hot water to thousands of people.

Feb. 8 eruption: Iceland volcano is erupting for the 3rd time since Nov. Here's what to know.

RUV quoted geophysicist Magnús Tumi Guðmundsson as saying that the latest eruption is the most powerful so far. The Met Office said some of the lava was flowing towards the defensive barriers around Grindavik.

Iceland, which sits above a volcanic hot spot in the North Atlantic, sees regular eruptions and is highly experienced at dealing with them. The most disruptive in recent times was the 2010 eruption of the Eyjafjallajokull volcano, which spewed huge clouds of ash into the atmosphere and led to widespread airspace closures over Europe.

No confirmed deaths have been reported from any of the recent eruptions, but a workman was declared missing after falling into a fissure opened by the volcano.