11-Day Northern Lights Self-Drive Holiday of the Complete Ring Road & Snaefellsnes Peninsula

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Description

Summary

Starts from
Keflavík Airport
Ends in
Keflavík Airport (KEF), Reykjanesbær, Iceland
Duration
11 days & 10 nights
Difficulty
Easy
Available
Sept. - Apr.
Accommodation
10 nights included
Car rental
11 days included

Description

Launch yourself into the stunning landscapes of Iceland on this 11-day self-drive tour around the Ring Road, with a stop at the magical Snaefellsnes Peninsula. This road trip is perfect for those who want to travel at their own pace across a winter wonderland in the land of fire and ice.

Book this winter self-drive adventure to save yourself from weeks of stressful travel planning. With a comprehensive travel itinerary included in this package, you'll have an informed and convenient Nordic vacation from when you land until your departure.

Iceland's rugged terrain and unpredictable weather conditions can present challenges, especially for new travelers. Fortunately, this itinerary also considers winter conditions and daylight hours to make your journey safer.

This tour takes you around the island in a clockwise direction, opposite to how most people decide to negotiate the Ring Road. This will help direct you to Iceland's best attractions away from the crowds.

Not only will you get to see well-visited sights such as the Golden Circle attractions and the South Coast, but you'll also scope out the fascinating Myvatn area, the dramatic Eastfjords, and historic West Iceland.

You'll see the most famous attractions in the country, like the Gullfoss waterfall, Reynisfjara black beach, Jokulsarlon glacier lagoon, and more. There are also less well-known yet equally beautiful landscapes, like the Dettifoss waterfall, Dimmuborgir lava field, and Egilsstadir town along the Ring Road route.

Daily, you can add adventurous outdoor activities, such as hiking or snowmobiling across a glacier, snorkeling between continents, or stepping inside a mesmerizing ice cave. You can select your preferred activities for an extra cost during the booking process.

Additionally, your accommodation will be arranged each evening, so all you have to concern yourself with is driving and hunting for the northern lights.

With this self-drive tour, you can visit the attractions on your bucket list and explore the country at your own pace. You can choose the routes, attractions, and the duration of your stay in each location. This flexibility allows for a personalized experience that suits your interests and preferences.

At your fingertips is a helpline or personal travel agent that you can contact at any point during your 11-day adventure. You can ask them questions or assistance in case of emergencies.

Do not be concerned if there are abrupt adjustments to your travel plans. You'll receive a complete reimbursement if you cancel your reservation up to 24 hours before departure.

Enjoy an unforgettable winter trip surrounded by diverse natural landscapes by joining this 11-day journey around Iceland's Ring Road. Check availability now by choosing a date.

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Included

10 nights of accommodation
Continental breakfast on all days
New rental car for 11 days
CDW car rental insurance
Gravel protection car insurance
Unlimited mileage
Unlimited in-car Wi-Fi
Detailed itinerary & travel plan
Personal travel agent
24/7 helpline
VAT & all taxes

Destinations

Reykjavik houses seen from Hallgrimskirkja church.Reykjavik / 3 nights
Beautiful coastal geology helps to define the Snaefellsnes Peninsula.Snæfellsnes / 1 night
North Iceland is home to many incredible attractions, such as the Hvitserkur rock formation.North Iceland / 1 night
Lake Myvatn is Northeast Iceland's most famous attraction.Northeast Iceland / 1 night
East Iceland is a spectacular region.Eastfjords / 1 night
The Vatnajokull glacier in Southeast Iceland.Southeast Iceland / 2 nights
Dyrhólaey peninsula from east to westSouth Coast / 1 night

Map

Attractions

Búðakirkja Church bathed by the Northern LightsBudir
Lóndrangar under the midnight sun.Lóndrangar
Djupalonssandur has beautiful natural featuresDjupalonssandur
Snæfellsjökull glacier above the black church at Búðir village.Snæfellsjökull
Mount Kirkjufell on Snaefellsnes peninsula is one of the most iconic mountains in IcelandKirkjufell
Borgarvirki (Citadel) is both natural and man-made.Borgarvirki
Hvítserkur, aka; “The Troll of North-West Iceland”, is a 15-metre (49ft) high basalt rock stack protruding from Húnaflói Bay.Hvitserkur
HraundrangiHraundrangi
Godafoss is a beautiful waterfall with ties to Iceland's religious history.Godafoss Waterfall
Lake Myvatn is surrounded by stunning natural beautyMývatn
Dettifoss waterfall in IcelandDettifoss
Hallormstadaskogar surrounds lake Lagarfjlot.Hallormsstaðaskógur
Lagarfljot, in east Iceland, has a terrible monster in its depths, according to legend.Lagarfljót
Vestrahorn is a spectacular mountain, especially under the Northern Lights.Vestrahorn
Vestrahorn is on the Stokknes PeninsulaStokksnes
Jokulsarlon glacier lagoon is a breathtaking natural wonder in IcelandJokulsarlon Glacier Lagoon
The icy diamonds of Diamond BeachDiamond Beach
Skaftafell Nature Preserve can be found in Öræfasveit, the western region of Austur-Skaftafellssýsla in Iceland.Skaftafell
Svartifoss in Skaftafell Nature Reserve in summer.Svartifoss
The Reynisfjall mountain towers over the Reynisfjara beachReynisfjara Black Sand Beach
Arial view of Reynisdrangar and Mt. ReynisfjallReynisdrangar
Skogafoss waterfall seen on a summer day in Iceland.Skogafoss
Seljalandsfoss on the South Coast of Iceland bathed in the otherworldly light of the midnight sun.Seljalandsfoss Waterfall
Canyon in Thingvellir National ParkThingvellir National Park
Geysir is a dormant hot spring in the geothermal area, Haukadalur Valley, found in South Iceland.Geysir
Long-exposure photo of Gullfoss waterfall on a cloudy dayGullfoss Waterfall
Kerid is a stunning volcanic crater in IcelandKerid Crater
Kleifarvatn is the third largest lake in Iceland.Kleifarvatn
KrýsuvíkKrýsuvík
Gunnuhver is one of the geothermal areas on the Reykjanes Peninsula.Gunnuhver

Activities

Glacier Hiking
Snorkelling
Caving
Snowmobile
Super Jeep
Sightseeing
Boat Trip
Northern lights hunting
Dog sledding
Hot Spring Bathing
Cultural Activity
Ice Caving
Self drive

Travel details

Travel dates

Travelers

Car

Car

Small car

Small car

Category
small car
Transmission
People
Large bags
Medium car

Medium car

Category
Medium
Transmission
People
Large bags
Premium car

Premium car

Category
premium car
Transmission
People
Large bags
large car

large car

Category
Large
Transmission
People
Large bags
SUV

SUV

Category
JEEPSUV
Transmission
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Large bags

Personalize your itinerary

Day 1

Day 1 – Reykjavik

  • Reykjavik - Arrival day
  • More

You've arrived in Iceland!

Grab your bags and make your way to meet your car rental representative. Once you have the keys to your vehicle, you'll exit Keflavik International Airport to make your way to Reykjavik across the Reykjanes Peninsula.

On your way to Iceland's capital, Reykjavik, you could choose to explore the Reykjanes Peninsula. Reykjanes is notable for its otherworldly geology due to its volcanic and geothermal nature. Lava fields, barren hills, and volcanoes are familiar sights in this area.

The most visited attraction in the area is the Blue Lagoon, a world-renowned spa known for its healing waters, vivid azure colors, and luxurious treatments. It's in the middle of a moss-covered lava field, giving it an otherworldly atmosphere.

If you add the Blue Lagoon, it will be arranged according to your flights. You can choose from a comfort or premium package, which entitles you to an entrance, mud masks, a towel use, and a drink of your choice.

If there's no time to visit the lagoon today, it can be added to another day. Your travel consultant will be able to arrange this for you.

The Sky Lagoon is a great alternative experience to the Blue Lagoon. The spa is located in Reykjavik, boasts fantastic views, and has luxurious facilities. A standard "Saman" entry allows you to access the Skjol bathing ritual, while the premium "Ser" entry provides a private changing room.

Upon reaching Reykjavik, you can explore the downtown area to experience its vibrant culture. So why not venture out and grab a drink or food to satisfy any post-flight appetites?

Cozying up in the city's charming cafes, sipping on hot drinks, and indulging in traditional Icelandic pastries like kleina and snudur provide a cozy respite from the crisp winter air. During winter, Reykjavik transforms into a winter wonderland, offering tourists a magical experience. 

A stroll through the compact city center reveals a plethora of cultural delights, including the iconic Hallgrimskirkja church with its soaring tower and the magnificent Harpa Concert panel with its hundreds of glass panels.

After an excellent introduction to Iceland, you'll retire to your accommodation in the city.

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Accommodation

Experiences

Day 2

Day 2 – Snæfellsnes

  • Snæfellsnes
  • More
  • Budir hamlet
  • Londrangar Basalt Cliffs
  • Djupalonssandur black pebble beach
  • Snaefellsjokull
  • Kirkjufell Mountain
  • More

On the second day of this winter drive, you'll drive to the Snaefellsnes Peninsula, often nicknamed 'Iceland in Miniature' for its variety of natural features. This modest 56-mile (90-kilometer) coastline has a wide array of attractions, including mountains, coastal villages, and beaches.

The most notable feature of the peninsula is Snaefellsjokull, a glacier-capped volcano with 700,000 years of history. Besides its prominent height of 4744 feet (1446 meters), Snaefellsjokull is famous worldwide thanks to Jule Verne's novel "Journey to the Center of the Earth."

In Jules Verne's novel, which has been adapted into several movies, Snaefellsjokull served as the gateway to the center of the Earth.

Not far from the Snaefellsnes glacier volcano is Djupalonssandur, a hauntingly beautiful black sand beach nestled along the coast. As you step onto the beach, you'll see vast stretches of shimmering black sand sculpted by the relentless waves of the Atlantic Ocean. The beach is also adorned with rock formations and remnants of a shipwreck.

If you're looking for a cultural attraction, another stop to make on the peninsula is Budir black church. Amidst the captivating landscapes of Snaefellsnes, the iconic Budir black church stands tall with this distinct black exterior.

The picturesque location of the church, with the backdrop of the Snaefellsjokull glacier and the surrounding terrain, creates a mesmerizing scene perfect for photography.

You also have the opportunity to see one of the most beautiful and photographed mountains in Iceland, Mount Kirkjufell, which was also featured in HBO's Game of Thrones. Kirkjufell is notable for its distinct peak, which towers at 1519 feet (463 meters).

While on the peninsula, you can join an adventure and visit the stunning Vatnshellir cave, an impressive lava tube. When your guide asks everyone to turn off their torches, you'll find strange lava formations, glittering walls, and pitch darkness inside the cave.

Whatever you get up to on this magical stretch of land, watch out for the northern lights in the evening before retiring to your accommodation in the area.

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Day 3

Day 3 – North Iceland

  • North Iceland
  • More
  • Borgarvirki basalt strata and ruins
  • Hvítserkur Rock Stack
  • Hraundrangar (By Hraun in Oxnadalur)
  • More

Wake up, get behind the wheel to rejoin the Ring Road, and make your way to the 'capital of the North,' Akureyri. On day three of this self-drive tour in the land of fire and ice, you'll explore the many wonders of North Iceland.

You can marvel at the grandeur and beauty of the Skagafjordur area as you make your way into Akureyri. The road passes through incredible sceneries and high mountain passes where it's possible to see horses playing in the fields.

Some places of interest in the area include the Hvitserkur rock stack and Hvammstangi village. 

Hvitserkur is a unique rock formation that sticks out from the sea at 49 feet (15 meters) on Iceland's northern coast. It looks like an enormous creature frozen in time against the backdrop of the ocean. People love taking pictures of this geological formation because it's so interesting.

Meanwhile, Hvammstangi is a quiet settlement perfect for experiencing nature and Icelandic culture. You can take walks by the coast, watch birds, and look for seals. The village has lovely places like cozy cafes where you can try local food.

After a few hours on the road, you'll finally reach the beautiful town of Akureyri.

This quirky town is filled with activities if you're not too tired after your time on the road. You could, for example, visit the many shops and boutiques, unwind in the local swimming pool, or go sightseeing at the stunning Akureyri church and Hof Culture Centre.

One of the most prominent features of Akureyri and the region is the picturesque Eyjafjordur fjord, one of the longest fjords in Iceland. The fjord spans 47 miles (70 kilometers), boasting valleys, cliffs, and snowcapped mountains.

The benefit of being so far north is that you have even more hours of darkness to see the northern lights, so take the opportunity to explore this charming municipality steeped in culture and history.

After another fantastic day, you'll retire to your North Iceland accommodation.

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Experiences

Day 4

Day 4 – Northeast Iceland

  • Northeast Iceland
  • More
  • Godafoss Waterfall
  • Lake Myvatn Area
  • More

On the fourth day of your self-drive tour in Iceland, you'll head to the stunning Lake Myvatn ("Fly-Lake") and its diverse surrounding region. Although it's one of the largest lakes in the country, it's unusually shallow, with an average depth of eight feet (2.5 meters).

Before leaving Akureyri town, a highly recommended activity is to start your day with an adventure and set sail onto Eyjafjordur fjord to visit its famous residents, the whales. 

As you drive towards the rich geothermal area of Myvatn, be sure to stop at the beautiful waterfall of Godafoss. This stunning feature plummets down 39-foot (12-meter) high arch-shape cliffs, providing visitors with a few vantage points to view this majestic cascade.

There are a few stops you could make in the Myvatn area. One is at the lake, where you can see a collection of pseudo-craters, a fascinating geological feature formed by the unique interaction between lava and water. These rare, natural features are only found in a handful of other places worldwide.

Be sure to stop by the Dimmuborgir lava field, also known as "Dark Castles," as the area is often likened to a formidable Medieval Fort. There are many hiking trails, so you could go for a ramble and enjoy the profound serenity and silence of the area.

Also, check out the bubbling mud puddles and steaming fumaroles at the Namafjall geothermal area, where the formative processes that shape our earth rise to the surface.

To cap off your day and fully embrace the region's geothermal charm, you can dip in the warm waters of the Myvatn Nature Baths, where you can enjoy the view of your volcanic surroundings while soaking in mineral-rich geothermal waters.

You'll then spend the night in nearby North Iceland accommodation.

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Day 5

Day 5 – Eastfjords

  • Eastfjords
  • More
  • Dettifoss waterfall
  • Hallormsstadaskogur Forest
  • Lake Lagarfljót
  • More

Leaving the Myvatn area, you'll make your way to East Iceland, one of the most remote regions in the country.

Before you set off, indulge in a genuinely Arctic experience and take a dog-sledding tour around the beautiful Lake Myvatn. After whizzing around the snow on a sled pulled by adorable Huskies, you can reward these hard-working creatures with a good belly rub.

If you fancy some time off from driving or want to visit places hard-reached by regular cars, you can opt for a tour to Dettifoss waterfall in a formidable super jeep equipped to handle any terrain or weather.

This stunning feature is considered the most powerful waterfall in Europe and was featured in Ridley Scott's sci-fi movie Prometheus. Dettifoss has an impressive width of 328 feet (100 meters) and an average water flow of 6,186 cubic feet (193 cubic meters) per second plunging into a deep canyon.

The waterfall is breathtaking in winter when snow and ice adorn its sides and surroundings. Take as many photos as possible in the area before moving on to your next stop.

Alternatively, you could head straight for the Eastfjords to explore the charming town of Egilsstadir. Egilsstadir is considered the capital of East Iceland because it serves as the region's leading service for commerce, transportation, and tourism.

The town features excellent shops, restaurants, accommodations, and even a local airport. You can stroll around the streets to learn more about the local culture and talk with the friendly locals to complete your experience.

Nearby is another scenic town called Seydisfjordur, a quaint little fishing town with beautiful houses and a charming pastel-blue church.

You'll retire to accommodation in East Iceland this evening. Make sure you keep your eyes open for the northern lights before you go to bed.

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Day 6

Day 6 – Southeast Iceland

  • Southeast Iceland
  • More
  • Vestrahorn
  • Stokksnes Peninsula & Vestrahorn Mountain
  • More

You have a day to yourself in the Eastfjords, a beautiful region dotted by charming fjords and coastal villages. Fewer tourists venture into this area, especially during winter, so you can expect more personal time exploring attractions.

The Eastfjords of Iceland during winter offer a breathtakingly beautiful and unique experience. Nestled along the country's eastern coast, this region is known for its rugged landscapes, dramatic fjords, and serene beauty. You also have the best opportunity to see wild reindeer here when they go down the valleys to graze. 

Just outside Egilsstadir stands Iceland's largest forest, Hallormsstadaskogur, a fantastic place to stroll. It's the largest national forest in Iceland, covering at least 740 hectares (1828 acres) with 85 tree species.

You can also check out the Lagarfljot lake, which is long-rumored to be inhabited by a serpent-like creature, a story that outdates the Loch Ness legend by many years.

While driving in the Eastfjords, you can make a few stops to admire the region's rich culture and history. The Eastfjords are home to charming fishing villages dotted along the coastline. In winter, these villages exude a peaceful and tranquil atmosphere.

Some of the recommended pitstops here are Faskrudsfjordur and Djupivogur, where you can rest briefly while admiring the surrounding winter landscapes.

When you reach the southeast, you could go to the stunning Stokksnes peninsula, home to the very photogenic Vestrahorn mountain called the 'Batman Mountain' for its jagged, pointy peaks. The Eastfjords are dramatic and magnetic, and the mountainscapes are genuinely breathtaking.

Visit the charming fishing village of Hofn, renowned for its langoustine lobster and proximity to the Vatnajokull glacier.

Retire to your Southeast Iceland accommodation when you're ready. Watch for the northern lights across the beautiful bay before calling it a night.

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Day 7

Day 7 – Southeast Iceland

  • Southeast Iceland
  • More
  • Jokulsarlon Glacier Lagoon
  • Diamond Beach
  • Skaftafell Nature Reserve
  • More

On day seven of your winter self-drive tour on the Ring Road, you'll make your way to the 'Crown Jewel of Iceland,' Jokulsarlon glacier lagoon. The lagoon is where massive icebergs break away from an outlet glacier of Vatnajokull and lazily drift out to sea.

Jokulsarlon is renowned for its massive icebergs that have broken off from the nearby Breidamerkurjokull glacier. These icebergs, in various shades of white and blue, float gracefully in the lagoon, creating a breathtaking sight. Some icebergs are small, while others can be several meters in height, resembling sculpted works of art.

Admire the tranquil pieces of ancient ice rendered in brilliant blues and white, scarred with streaks of black ash from historical eruptions. With luck on your side, you might even spot seals playing and resting on these chunks of ice. Opt for a boat trip for an up-close view of this mesmerizing landscape.

You can also visit Diamond Beach, adjacent to this natural wonder, where the icebergs wash ashore in the surf and stand in stark contrast to the black beach they rest upon. The volcanic beach is a haven for landscape and nature photographers due to its stunning beauty.

Besides Jokulsarlon and Diamond beach, you can enter one of the world's most phenomenal natural creations, a brilliant ice cave inside of Europe's largest glacier, Vatnajokull.

This winter season, two beautiful ice caves have been discovered in the Vatnajokull National Park: the Western Ice Cave and the Eastern Ice Cave. Choose to add this amazing adventure to your trip and visit the best ice cave accessible on the day, taking into account the weather conditions and visibility to ensure the ultimate ice-caving experience.

Stepping inside an ice cave, you'll be surrounded by different shades of blue ice walls where millions of oxygen bubbles are trapped inside ancient ice. Not much can prepare you for the beauty insides of this ice cap, so don't miss out on this once-in-a-lifetime opportunity.

You will spend the night in Southeast Iceland. Before enjoying a comfortable sleep in your cozy room, you can wait or hunt for the aurora borealis.

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Day 8

Day 8 – South Coast

  • South Coast
  • More
  • Skaftafell Nature Reserve
  • Svartifoss
  • More

On day eight, you'll explore Skaftafell nature reserve, renowned for its diverse and beautiful natural features. The nature reserve used to be a national park in its own right before it became part of the larger Vatnajokull National Park.

Skaftafell is a breathtaking destination showcasing Iceland's natural landscapes' raw and captivating beauty. Its glacial wonders, majestic waterfalls, diverse wildlife and flora, and various outdoor activities make it a must-visit location for nature lovers and adventurers.

Nestled in Southeast Iceland, you can reach the nature reserve between the coastal town of Hofn and the village of Kirkjubaejarklaustur. It lies at the southern edge of Vatnajokull, Europe's largest glacier.

The reserve is often nicknamed a hiker's paradise for its abundance of trails surrounded by magnificent scenery. These trails are well-maintained, allowing visitors to explore the area with the help of an experienced guide.

The trails vary in difficulty and length, catering to both casual hikers and experienced adventurers. They weave through diverse landscapes, including glacial valleys, lava fields, birch forests, and cascading waterfalls, providing a memorable and immersive experience of Iceland's winter wilderness.

You can take a glacier hike and conquer the icy giants of the mountains. All equipment is provided, and there's nothing better than observing the beauty of the surrounding area from the serene glacial landscapes. An experienced guide will lead the adventure to ensure your safety and enjoyment.

Be sure to visit the famous Svartifoss waterfall, which cascades in front of brilliant black basalt columns. The contrast between the dark columns and the shimmering white water adds to the allure of this natural wonder.

You'll spend the night in cozy South Iceland accommodation. Before resting for the night, you can take an hour or two to hunt for the magical aurora borealis.

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Day 9

Day 9 – Reykjavik

  • Reykjavik
  • More
  • Reynisfjara black sand beach
  • Reynisdrangar Sea Stacks
  • Skogafoss waterfall
  • Seljalandsfoss Waterfall
  • More

Your route for day nine is the impressive South Coast of Iceland, one of the most visited areas in the land of fire and ice. This region is an excellent place to see diverse landscapes in a single day, from waterfalls to black sand beaches to mountains and glaciers.

You can begin the day by walking around Vik to see the charming houses and excellent shops. The village also offers a panoramic view of the area, which extends to the North Atlantic Ocean.

Not far from here is Reynisfjara beach, known for its composition of black sand, defiant sea stacks, and towering basalt columns. Although the beach is beautiful to see up close, swimming here is prohibited due to the massive Atlantic waves. So don't forget to explore the beach with caution.

To the west of the beach is the impressive sea arch of Dyrholaey, a picturesque area to stop and take photos.

Back on the Ring Road, you now have a choice to hike on the beautiful Solheimajokull glacier to get a fantastic view of the South Coast's mountains and the opaque glacier lagoon, which sits in the realm of the glacier. 

You could also take a tour where you enter the intriguing Katla ice cave inside Myrdalsjokull, Iceland's fourth largest glacier. The ice cap sits on top of the mighty volcano, Katla, and inside the cave, you'll see how the white ice of the glacier is colored with jet-black streaks of ash from past eruptions.

The adventure doesn't stop there. Before returning to Reykjavik, you should stop at two of Iceland's most beautiful waterfalls, Skogafoss and Seljalandsfoss. Both fall from a massive 197 feet (60 meters), making for an impressive sight, especially in their winter finery.

Before the day ends, you'll return to Reykjavik for a night of exploration and peaceful sleep in one of the charming accommodations in the city.

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Day 10

Day 10 – Reykjavik

  • Reykjavik
  • More
  • Thingvellir National Park
  • Geysir geothermal area
  • Gullfoss waterfall
  • Kerid Crater
  • More

Waking up in Reykjavik on the penultimate day of your winter adventure, get on the road for Iceland's best-loved route, the Golden Circle.

Your first stop will be Thingvellir National Park, which is remarkable for many reasons. Here, Viking settlers created the first parliament in Iceland, Althingi, which still runs today in Reykjavik, making it the world's oldest continuous parliament.

Geologically, the park sits astride the Mid-Atlantic Rift, and both the Eurasian and North American plates are exposed on the surface. This means you can walk between two continents, something you'll find hard to do anywhere else.

The next stop is the Geysir geothermal area, home to the geysers, the most active of which is Strokkur. It erupts impressive water sprays every five to 10 minutes up to 66 feet (20 meters) in the air.

The incredible Gullfoss waterfall is not far from here, which plummets into a vast canyon and makes for a breathtaking sight. 

You have several ways to make your Golden Circle trip even more memorable.

First, you could go snorkeling in the crystal clear glacial waters of the Silfra fissure in Thingvellir and swim between the continents. The clear waters of Silfra provide excellent visibility, opening up a sky-blue underworld filled with beautiful rock formations and canyons. Participants need to be comfortable in the water and be able to swim.

Alternatively, you could ascend Iceland's second-largest glacier, Langjokull, and shoot across its icy plains on a snowmobile for a thrilling experience. Nothing can beat the adrenaline surging in your veins as you breathe in the crisp mountain air on top of a glacier.

Meanwhile, if you'd rather lie back and relax, you can go to the geothermally-fed Secret Lagoon next to the charming town of Fludir to soak in the warm water and admire the view before returning to Reykjavik for the night.

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Day 11

Day 11 – Reykjavik

  • Reykjavik - Departure day
  • More
  • Kleifarvatn
  • Krýsuvík
  • Gunnuhver
  • More

The time has come for you to leave Iceland. If you have a late flight, you could stroll around Reykjavik. If you have an early flight, you can drive directly to the Keflavik International Airport, return your car, and catch your plane home.

If you still have ample time before your departure, today is your best chance for some last-minute shopping and sightseeing in the northernmost capital city in the world.

Downtown Reykjavik is the busiest area in Reykjavik, where you can find various shops and cultural landmarks. The best souvenir shops, record stores, boutiques, cafes, and restaurants await you on Laugavegur street. You'll find plenty of options to match your budget. 

Don't miss your chance to explore and take photos of the Hallgrimskirja church, Harpa Concert Hall, and Sun Voyager sculpture in the downtown area. While Hallgrimskirkja is the tallest church in Iceland at 244 feet (74.5 meters), Harpa Concert Hall boasts award-winning architecture made of geometric-shaped glass panels.

Meanwhile, the Sun Voyager is a beautiful metal feature by the harbor of Reykjavik, which resembles a Viking ship.

For those who have a later flight and choose to visit the Blue Lagoon today, you'll finish your stay unwinding before heading to the airport. This is the perfect place to relax as you bathe in the warm, mineral-rich waters while looking back on the incredible adventure you have just taken in the land of fire and ice.

Alternatively, you can visit a few more attractions in Reykjanes Peninsula on your way to the Keflavik International Airport. For example, check out popular sites such as the Kleifarvatn lake, Krysuvik geothermal area, and Gunnuhver geothermal field.

We wish you a pleasant journey home and hope to see you again soon.

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Experiences

What to bring

Warm and waterproof clothing
Good waterproof shoes
Swimsuit and Towel
Camera
Driver's License

Good to know

Self-drive tours begin either in Reykjavík City or at Keflavik International Airport. A valid driver's license and a one-year-long on-road experience are required. Please be aware that your itinerary may be rearranged to fit your arrival date and time better. Gravel protection is not included if you choose a Toyota Aygo or similar.

Please note that breakfast may not be included in a few selected hostels and guesthouses.

Some optional activities might require you to have a valid driver's license, or you might need to send additional information to your travel planner. Please note that you might need to present medical documents for snorkeling or diving, and participants need to be comfortable in the water and be able to swim.

The northern lights are a natural phenomenon and, therefore, cannot be guaranteed, but this itinerary is designed to maximize your chances to see them if the weather allows.

It can happen, in the case of extreme weather, that an activity is canceled. If your chosen activity is canceled, we will assist you with rearranging or booking other activities when possible, and any potential price difference will be refunded to you. Please note that the ice caves are only accessible from October to March yearly.

This self-drive is set to take place in wintertime. Conditions in Iceland can vary significantly during that season. Snow and ice are commonplace, and Iceland has limited daylight hours. Please consider your ability to drive in winter conditions before booking this tour. If you feel insecure about driving in these conditions, we recommend a package tour instead.

Note that Icelandic roads and pavements can be slippery in the wintertime. We recommend you bring shoes with slip-resistant soles or ice-grip shoe covers. The covers can be purchased in most supermarkets and gas stations nationwide.

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Install Iceland’s biggest travel app

Download Iceland’s biggest travel marketplace to your phone to manage your entire trip in one place

Scan this QR code with your phone camera and press the link that appears to add Iceland’s biggest travel marketplace into your pocket. Enter your phone number or email address to receive an SMS or email with the download link.