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Iceland Ring Road & Westfjords Epic Adventure

14 days / 13 nights

  • 4.9
  • (13 reviews)
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Explore every corner of Iceland in 2 weeks

Sail across the Breiðafjörður bay to the Westfjords, Iceland’s remotest region, and discover it in depth. Then continue your way around the Ring Road, taking in majestic waterfalls, glorious glaciers, and striking mountains.
On this 14-day epic adventure around Iceland, pass through every region of the country and soak up the unique vibe of each one. And because it’s a self-drive trip, you can set your own pace and stop when and where you like.

Travel style

Self-drive

Trip length

14 days / 13 nights

Vibe

Ultimate

Season

Summer (1 May–30 Sep)

Transport

Rental car

Starts from

Reykjavík

Tour code

SD03

On this tour you will...

  • Get truly off the beaten track in the Westfjords region
  • See the geothermal wonders of North Iceland
  • Follow the classic Golden Circle route
  • Explore ‘Iceland in Miniature’ on the Snæfellsnes peninsula
  • Admire mighty waterfalls and giant glaciers
  • Have the chance to spot puffins, Arctic foxes and whales

Top attractions

Arnarstapi
Kirkjufell
Hraunfossar and Barnafoss
Deildartunguhver
Akureyri
Dimmuborgir
Lake Mývatn
Goðafoss
Dettifoss
Húsavík
Vík í Mýrdal
Skaftafell
Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon
Seljalandsfoss
Skógafoss
Geysir and Strokkur
Þingvellir National Park
Gullfoss
Why book a self-drive trip with SAMATRIP™?
  • Start your tour on the date that suits you
  • Secure your booking with just a 5% deposit
  • Handpicked local accommodation options
  • 24/7 emergency helpline in Iceland
  • New rental cars with 2 drivers as standard
  • Best Price Guarantee

Your 14-day self-drive itinerary

Day 1 – Welcome to Iceland
Your memorable Iceland adventure begins the very moment you arrive at Keflavík Airport. Once you pick up your rental vehicle, you’ll head directly for Reykjavík and your exciting first night in Iceland.
Today you will be discovering an interesting area, rich with cultural and historical heritage. As you head toward Borgarfjörður, we recommend stopping by the magnificent Hraunfossar waterfalls where the water seems to magically flows from the lava bed into the river below. Heading to Snæfellsnes peninsula you should visit the beautiful places all around the peninsula; for example Búðir, Arnarstapi and Hellnar on the way to your accommodation in the Snæfellsnes area.
Your day will start with a boat ride on the Baldur ferry taking you to the beautiful West Fjords. You will depart in the morning from Stykkishólmur heading to Látrabjarg and sailing through Breiðafjörður Bay.
Today you continue up north along the West Fjords, one of the most remote regions of Iceland. The landscape is breathtaking as you cross mountains and heaths, and drive along the dramatic fjords at the foot of steep cliffs. Dynjandi is a beautiful waterfall that lies in the northern arm of the fjord Arnarfjörður. You continue toward the north until you reach the village Flateyri and from there you drive on to reach your accommodation near the Ísafjörður town.
Today your journey through the most remote places in Iceland continues. Next up is Strandir, the eastern part of the Westfjords. You’ll thrill to the spectacular landscape while driving along the numerous small fjords of Ísafjarðardjúp and passing Vigur Island along the way.
Your next day’s journey continues toward the northern part of Iceland ending in the north’s capital, Akureyri, passing through Skagafjörður known for exceptional horse breeding; in fact, many stunning Icelandic horses can be seen on your drive.
In the morning you can spend some time in Akureyri before heading to the Lake Mývatn area. It is undoubtedly one of Iceland’s most renowned areas due to its volcanic activity and its amazing bird life. On the way to Mývatn, you will have the opportunity to take a look at the picturesque Goðafoss waterfall. At Mývatn there are various exciting places of interest that you can visit such as the Skútustaðir pseudo-craters and the mysterious lava formations of Dimmuborgir. Two nights in or near the Mývatn area.
Your whole day today is dedicated to the marvels of the Lake Mývatn Nature Reserve renowned for being one of Iceland’s most inspiring natural wonders. Be sure to make a stop at the Mývatn’s warm geothermal bath for a relaxing moment in the blue waters while enjoying a superb view over the lake.
Your day starts in the charming fishing village of Húsavík. After Húsavík, you will drive the Tjörnes Peninsula coastline where you can make a quick stop on the way at its extremity to enjoy the view and spot some seabirds. The journey then continues to the eastern part of Iceland with a few stops on the way for your next evening’s stay.
You discover today the Eastfjords! Starting with the fjord Reyðarfjörður where a small-but-fascinating World War II history museum is located before continuing along the fjords toward Southeast Iceland where you might like to drive to other fjords on the way. Finally you drive through the tunnel of Almannaskarð to arrive in the Höfn region where you will spend the night.
Your next stop is Iceland’s scenic southeast. After passing various glaciers tongues of the Vatnajökull, Europe’s largest ice cap, you’ll arrive at the stunningly surreal beauty of the glacier lagoon, Jökulsárlón. This exceptional sight sits at the foot of Iceland’s highest mountain, Hvannadalshnúkur. Skaftafell is another area definitely worth a visit. This oasis surrounded by glaciers and black sand plains offers a broad range of options for great hiking. Later, continue your drive to Vík/Kirkjubæjarklaustur for your overnight stay.

Today you can start by taking a look at the black sand Reynisfjara beach, famous for the Reynisdrangar rock stacks that rise from the sea and its basalt columns. You might like to make a stop at Dyrhólaey cape which is the southernmost point of Iceland. A small road takes you to the top of this 120 m high sea cliff where you often can see a large number of puffins. (Please note that Dyrhólaey is closed during nesting season from May 15 til June 23 and from mid- August the puffins will have gone to sea!).

Continuing westbound you arrive at Skógar and pass Skógafoss waterfall, one of the highest in Iceland. As you continue towards Selfoss you pass Seljalandsfoss waterfall and you can actually walk behind it.

Today you will explore and marvel at the attractions of the famous the Golden Circle. First, the imposing Gullfoss waterfall, followed by the steaming power of Geysir. Here you can witness the Strokkur geyser propel warm water columns in the air every 5–10 minutes. Last but not least, the Þingvellir National Park. This is where the North American and Eurasian tectonic plates meet, creating this impressive landscape.

Later, you’ll reach Reykjavík where you will spend your last night in Iceland.

It seems as if your journey to fabulous Iceland only began a moment ago, but now it is time to head back home, driving back to Keflavík Airport for your flight. Depending on your flight’s time, you may be able to squeeze in a last day in Reykjavík or an extra night in there to experience all the amazing things that the city has to offer.

What’s included?

  • Detailed itinerary
  • Budget, Comfort, or Quality accommodation every night
  • Continental breakfast every day
  • Rental car of your choice for 9 days
  • 2 authorized drivers as standard
  • Unlimited mileage
  • Unlimited in-car Wi-Fi
  • Collision damage waiver
  • Tickets for Baldur ferry to Westfjords
  • 24/7 emergency helpline when you’re in Iceland
  • Carbon offsetting of your tour
  • VAT, taxes & service fees
  • Flights to Iceland
  • Fuel & parking charges
  • Food & drink, unless otherwise stated
  • Attraction entrance fees, unless otherwise stated
  • Personal travel insurance

FAQs about our self-drive trips

How does an Iceland self-drive trip work?

On a self-drive trip with SAMATRIP™, you’ll be at the wheel of the rental car of your choice and free to go pretty much where you want, whenever you want.

We provide a detailed itinerary to help you plan your route and where you want to stop along the way. But it’s up to you whether you want to stick to it or go your own way. If you do take detours, make sure that you aren’t too far from your accommodation on any given night.

That said, it’s a good idea to stick to the suggested itinerary if you’ve never visited Iceland before. Created by our Reykjavík-based travel experts, it contains plenty of things for you to and see and do on each leg of your trip. One thing’s for sure: you won’t be short on ideas!

You also get unlimited in-car Wi-Fi, so you can stay connected and use maps on your phone for navigation.

It’s best to book your trip at least a few weeks before you travel. This gives us enough time to organize your preferred accommodation and itinerary. For this reason, we’re unable to accept bookings with less than 1 week’s notice.

In the summer, which is the most popular time of year, booking a few months ahead is a good idea. In certain parts of the countryside, accommodation options are more limited and can be booked up well ahead of your trip.

You have to be at least 20 years old to rent a car in Iceland, or 23 years old for larger vehicles like jeeps and vans. You’ll need to have held a valid driver’s license for at least 1 year and present a credit card when you collect your car.

You don’t need an International Driving Permit unless your license is not in Latin script (for example, Arabic or Chinese).

Find out more about car rental in Iceland.

Yes! It’s possible to add extra activities or extend your trip with additional nights in Reykjavík or the countryside. Check the itinerary above to see what activities are available on what day.

Of course you can add extra adventures! We want you to be able to get the absolute most out of your trip to Iceland, so you can pick optional extra activities at checkout. You’ll be shown exactly what’s on offer for each day of your trip.

And if you feel like you just don’t have enough time to fit it all in, you can also add extra days.

The rules of the road in Iceland are similar to most other countries, although there are some local quirks that you might not be familiar with.

Iceland drives on the right and steering wheels are on the left side of the car. Distances and speed limits are given in kilometers only.

Roundabouts are very common in Iceland, especially in towns. If you’re not familiar with these, make sure you understand how to give way (yield) to other traffic.

In the countryside, you might encounter sheep on the road, or even reindeer in East Iceland. You may also come across gravel roads, single-lane bridges, and blind summits.

Once you’ve paid your deposit for your trip, we’ll finalize bookings for your accommodation, rental car, and any activities. As soon as we receive confirmation of everything, we’ll email your travel documents to you.

We aim to finalize everything within a few weeks of receiving your booking request, but in busy periods this might take longer. That said, you’ll always receive all of your documents before your departure date.

You’ll be able to pick up your rental car at Keflavík International Airport from the arrivals hall. Before your trip, we’ll send you information about where to go in the terminal to collect your keys.

Make sure you have your driver’s license and credit card ready when you collect your vehicle.

If you land late at night, you can use the out-of-hours phone at the pick-up desk to contact someone who will be able to help you.

You also have the option to collect your rental car in Reykjavík, if you’re planning to spend some extra days in the city before your trip starts. If you’d like to do this, please let us know in the ‘Special requests’ box at checkout.

Yes, you can easily collect your rental car from Reykjavík instead of Keflavik Airport.

During the booking steps on our website, just let us know you’d prefer your pick-up/drop-off location to be in the city centre. We’ll take care of it for you, no problem.

Just a quick heads-up: if you request different pick-up and drop-off locations (e.g. collect from the airport, drop off in the city, or vice versa) there’s a one-way fee of around ISK 8,790 ISK (EUR 60). You’ll pay this directly to the rental company when you pick up the car.

All of our self-drive tour packages include the following as standard:

    • Rental car of your choice, with unlimited mileage
    • Basic liability insurance coverage
    • Collision damage waiver
    • Authorization for second driver
    • Unlimited in-car Wi-Fi
    • Accommodation level of your choice
    • Breakfast every day
    • Detailed itinerary crafted by local travel experts
    • 24/7 helpline in Iceland, just in case you need it

When you book your vacation on our website, you’ll be able to choose your preferred rental car and accommodation level.

You can see what vehicles are available on this car rental page.

On a self-drive package with Iceland Tours, you can choose from 3 levels of accommodation:

    • Budget – Guesthouses and country hotels, with shared bathrooms
    • Comfort – Hotels or guesthouses of around 3 stars, with private bathrooms
    • Quality – Hotels or guesthouses of around 4 stars, with private bathrooms

Each accommodation level offers different types of rooms. We’ve described them below to help you choose the best one for you. Just keep in mind that not every hotel has all these room types available.

    • Single room: one single bed in a room, perfect for solo travelers.
    • Double room: a full-sized double bed for 2 people.
    • Twin room: a room with 2 single beds that fit 1 person each.
    • Triple room: these vary in size and layout, but are designed to fit 3 adults. Triple rooms feature a combination of double, single or sofa beds, depending on the hotel.

No matter which accommodation level you pick, breakfast is included. Read more about the differences between the levels on this accommodation page.

Feel like getting closer to nature? Check out these self-drive camping tours.

In Iceland, you can expect all weathers no matter what time of year you visit. With that in mind, it’s good to make sure you’ve got everything you need to stay cozy, warm, and dry.

Here’s a packing list to help you get ready for your trip:

    • Tough, waterproof walking boots
    • Thermal underlayers
    • Sweaters or fleeces
    • Waterproof raincoat
    • Warm winter jacket
    • Scarf, hat, and gloves
    • Sunglasses
    • Swimwear (for pools and hot springs)
    • Lip salve and moisturizer

No worries! SAMATRIP™ is already offsetting the carbon footprint of your tour package. We’ve teamed up with an environmental fund in Iceland to cover the carbon offset for all our tours.

Carbon offsetting for international flights is not included, but we suggest checking with your airline or through a local environmental fund for options.

Choose your accommodation level

Stay in well-located hotels and guesthouses that are highly rated by visitors and handpicked by experts.

More info

Choose your rental car

Included as standard:

More info
  • Collision damage waiver
  • 2 authorized drivers
  • Unlimited in-car Wi-Fi
  • Extra nights
  • Please note that your rental car is not included in the cost of any additional nights. Get in touch if you would like to extend your rental car period.
  • Your room choices
How many rooms do you need?
  • The maximum number of rooms you can book online is 4. If you need more rooms, please email [email protected]
Which sleeping arrangement would you like?
  • Your activities and day tours
Customize your adventure with these extra excursions and activities.

Day 3 – Snæfellsnes and Breiðafjörður bay

Day 4 – Westfjords and Dynjandi waterfall

Day 5 – The most remote place in Iceland: the Westfjords

Day 10 – Eastfjords

  • Traveler information
Make sure you enter all names exactly as they appear on the passport. You may be charged amendment fees for any name changes after booking.
Adult – Lead traveler
More Adult or Children info
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Additional information

Please let us know if someone in our team helped you with your booking.

Terms & conditions

Before making a reservation at SAMATRIP™, we encourage you to read these terms and conditions carefully, as they constitute a contract agreement between SAMATRIP™ and you, from the time the booking is made. The person who makes the booking accepts these conditions on behalf of all the people in the group and is responsible for all payments due.

By submitting a booking you confirm to us that you comply with these arrangements.

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Iceland Ring Road & Westfjords Epic Adventure
  • Snæfellsnes peninsula

Arnarstapi

Your guide to Arnarstapi, Iceland

Arnarstapi is a small fishing village in West Iceland. You’ll find it on the southern side of the Snæfellsnes peninsula, close to the Snæfellsjökull National Park boundary.

While you’re strolling around this sleepy village, it might surprise you to learn that it was once a thriving fishery and trading post. This was during the 1700s when Iceland was under the control of Denmark. In fact, the Danish Prefect’s home is one of the oldest buildings in Iceland. 

Visit Arnarstrapi today and you’ll find that the village’s history stretches back even further, all the way to the Viking age. Bárðar saga Snæfellsáss, written down in the 14th century, is an Icelandic saga that tells the story of Bárður Snæfellsása, who was half-human, half-ogre. 

These days, Bárðar’s spirit is thought to live in Snæfellsjökull glacier, where he sits and watches over the peninsula. Head to Arnarstapi cliff viewpoint and you’ll see a striking stone monument that stands in his memory. 

What to see and do near Arnarstapi

One of the best things to do nearby is to walk around 2.5 km (1.5 mi) from the parking lot and viewpoint in Hellnar, along the coastal trail to Arnarstapi. This is a great way to take in jaw-dropping scenery while you stretch your legs. 

On the hike between Arnarstapi and Hellnar, you’ll cross an ancient lava field and spot plenty of rock formations in the sea cliffs. These include countless basalt columns and impressive stone arches, such as Gatklettur. 

During the summer months, you could also see the Arnarstapi cliffs come alive with hundreds of nesting Arctic terns. 

What else can you do here in a day? Arnarstapi is close to plenty of other natural attractions that you won’t want to miss. While you’re exploring Snæfellsnes, you could visit Snæfellsjökull glacier, Djúpalónssandur black sand beach, and Vatnshellir cave.
  • Snæfellsnes peninsula

Kirkjufell

Your guide to Kirkjufell, Iceland

Located in West Iceland, Kirkjufell is found on the northern side of the Snæfellsnes peninsula. You could visit the mountain on a guided day tour from Reykjavík, or make it a stop on your Iceland road trip.

In recent years, Kirkjufell mountain has been thrown into the limelight. This is partly thanks to it being used as a filming location for the TV series Game of Thrones. Not to mention the fact that snaps of this pyramidal peak look dreamy on Instagram.

With all of the buzz around it, you might be wondering if it’s actually worth visiting. But when you get to Kirkjufell, you’ll soon realise there’s more to this stunning place than getting the perfect shot. 

What to see and do at Kirkjufell

While the mountain is easy to spot as you pass by on the road, make sure you head to the Kirkjufell and Kirkjufellsfoss waterfall viewpoint. This is one of the best places to appreciate its beauty. 

After just a short walk from the roadside parking lot, you’ll be wowed by a view of the waterfall with the mountain as a backdrop. From here, the peak’s steeple shape makes it obvious why it was named Kirkjufell (‘church mountain’). 

Another excellent viewpoint to check out is Kolgrafarfjördur. It’s about 12 km (7.5 mi) away from Kirkjufell, a drive of around 10 minutes. Head to this higher spot overlooking the bay and you’ll glimpse the mountain from a less recognizable, but just as beautiful, angle. 

Not far from Kirkjufell is the fishing town of Grundarfjörður. It’s the perfect place to stop for something to eat or drink. And if you have time, you could visit the Saga Center Grundarfjörður to learn a bit about the local area. 

Slightly further away, but also well worth visiting, is the colorful and charming town of Stykkishólmur. And you’ll spot Snæfellsjökull glacier, which sits on top of a volcano at the western end of the peninsula. 

What’s more, there’s Arnarstapi village, on the south side of Snæfellsnes, where you can take in jaw-dropping scenery from a short clifftop trail.
  • West Iceland

Hraunfossar and Barnafoss

Your guide to Hraunfossar waterfall and Barnafoss waterfall

Hraunfossar and Barnafoss are a group of beautiful waterfalls located on the Hvítá river in West Iceland. Spend an hour or so here wandering the meandering paths and admiring the natural splendor of the falls.

You’ll encounter Hraunfossar, or ‘Lava Falls’, first. These are a series of interwoven streams that run directly off a lava field, hence the falls’ name. They span a total width of around 900 meters (2,950 feet), creating a beautiful sight as they roll gently into the turquoise river below.

Further upstream, you’ll find Barnafoss, whose name means ‘Children’s Falls’. This is a dramatic and powerful waterfall that has carved its way through the volcanic rock. You’ll spot a stone arch above it, that has a folk tale associated with it.

Together, Hraunfossar and Barnafoss form one of the most breathtaking sets of waterfalls in Iceland. They’re easy to access too, being just a half-hour drive off the Ring Road. This means you can easily add them to any road trip through West Iceland.
Another 20 minutes up the 518 road you’ll find the Deildartunguhver hot spring

The legend of Barnafoss

Although there are many folk tales associated with the waterfall called Barnafoss, perhaps the most famous is the one about two boys who lived on a nearby farm.

The story goes that one day, the boys’ parents used a stone bridge to cross the falls on their way to church. The boys had been told to stay at home, but as young children tend to do, they got bored and followed their parents over the bridge.

On their way over, they lost their balance and fell into the falls below. Once their mother realized what had happened, she put a curse on the bridge that meant anyone who crossed it would drown.

Soon after, the stone bridge was destroyed in an earthquake.

  • West Iceland

Deildartunguhver

Your guide to Deildartunguhver hot spring

Deildartunguhver is a mighty thermal spring at the mouth of the Reykholtsdalur valley in West Iceland. Here you can experience the geothermal forces at work underneath Iceland’s bedrock for yourself.

Hot water rushes out of the spring at a flow rate of 180 liters per second, the highest of any hot spring in Europe. When the water reaches the ground, it’s at a temperature of 97°C (206°F).

Deildartunguhver is located inland, and is just a 20-minute drive from the waterfalls Hraunfossar and Barnafoss. Around the hot spring you’ll see greenhouses where tomatoes are grown using the heat generated.

The hot spring is within a geologically active belt that stretches from the Reykjanes peninsula in southwest Iceland to the north. This geological activity is what heats the water of the Blue Lagoon and the Strokkur geyser in the Geysir geothermal area.

Hot water from Deildartunguhver is used to feed the neighboring Krauma Geothermal Baths. Here you’re treated to a stunning view of the surrounding valley in the comfort of a pleasantly warm pool.

  • North Iceland

Akureyri

Your guide to Akureyri, Iceland: the gateway to the north

Iceland is often said to have just one city, but if there’s any place that can challenge that claim, it’s Akureyri. Billed by locals as the capital of North Iceland, it delivers historic charm, captivating culture, and exciting food experiences.

It doesn’t hurt either that the surrounding area is one of the most beautiful regions of Iceland. Thanks to its sheltered location deep in a fjord, Akureyri gets mild weather all year round. In summer the hillsides are lush, whereas in winter they’re blanketed in powdery snow.

Akureyri town center is packed with traditional wooden buildings from the early 20th century. Walk the main street of Hafnarstræti, which runs to Ráðhústorg square, and you’ll stumble upon a cluster of restaurants, cafés, and shops.

Next to the harbor you’ll find Hof Cultural and Conference Center, Akureyri’s answer to the famous Harpa concert hall in Reykjavík. A short walk from here is the Oddeyri district, which is dotted with more historic buildings.

Activity-wise, for starters there is Akureyri Botanical Garden, just south of the town center. Opened in 1912, the garden was the first public park in Iceland and is home to hundreds of species of plants. It’s a must-visit in summer and has a beautiful café.

In winter, the ski resort just outside town is popular with locals. Although not on a par with Alpine skiing, it’s a great place to get your fix.

  • North Iceland

Dimmuborgir

Your guide to Dimmuborgir, Iceland

Dimmuborgir, which means ‘Dark Castles’, is a huge lava field covered in unusual rock formations and caves. This natural wonder is a must-see stop along the Diamond Circle route and even featured in Game of Thrones.

You’ll find the Dimmuborgir lava field on the east shore of Lake Mývatn in North Iceland, just a 1-hour drive from the town of Akureyri.

When you arrive here, you’ll feel like you’ve stepped into a fairytale or another world entirely. The sky-high lava formations, some towering 20 meters (64 feet) above you, are unlike anything else you’ll see in Iceland. 

They were formed around 2,300 years ago when two nearby craters erupted. As molten lava flowed over a lake, it created lava pillars that quickly solidified. Today, these stunning natural sculptures are a popular spot on Iceland’s Ring Road (Route 1).

Explore the Dimmuborgir lava formations at your own pace by walking along the color-coded hiking trails marked on the map near the entrance. The paths are easy to walk and take 10 minutes to 2 hours to complete.

If you’re a Game of Thrones fan, the area might look familiar! The snow-dusted lava caves were the base camp for Mance Rayder and his wildling army in season 3. 

Dimmuborgir’s dramatic lava fields are also featured in Icelandic folklore. Legend has it that the caves are home to the 13 Yule Lads, or Icelandic Santa Clauses. It’s also said Satan landed here when he was thrown out of heaven and built the catacombs of hell.

  • North Iceland

Lake Mývatn

Your guide to Lake Mývatn

Visit Lake Mývatn and the surrounding area to explore unusual rock formations. Here you’ll find volcanic craters, hot water caves, steam vents, mud pools and more.

Lake Mývatn is located on the Ring Road (Route 1) in the north of Iceland, around 1 hour east of Akureyri. It’s also one of the main stops on the Diamond Circle touring route.

The beautiful lake sits in the middle of a lava field, formed only a few thousand years ago. Nearby is a geologically active area that forms part of the Krafla volcano system. You can see this geothermal activity at play in the form of hot springs and mud pots.

The shores of the lake are green and lush in summertime, and home to dozens of different bird species. It’s well worth visiting the Lake Mývatn area for this compelling combination of wildlife and landscapes in such a compact area.

What to see and do near Lake Mývatn

A popular stop is the Dimmuborgir caves, which featured in season 3 of Game of Thrones. Even if you’re not a fan, you’ll want to see the hexagonal rocks and indigo-tinted water of the caves.

The Námaskarð hot springs are a few minutes’ drive east of Lake Mývatn. Here you can see (and smell) sulfuric steam rising straight out of the Earth.

For a more tranquil way to experience the area’s geothermal forces, visit Mývatn Nature Baths. Here you can relax and unwind in blue, silica-rich waters. This is North Iceland’s answer to the Blue Lagoon.

On the north side of the lake, you’ll find the village of Reykjahlíð. It has a few dining options, as well as a supermarket and service station. 

If you’re heading east, make sure to fuel up here. There isn’t anywhere else to stop until you reach the town of Egilsstaðir, around 175 km (108 mi) away.

  • North Iceland

Goðafoss

Your guide to Goðafoss waterfall

Goðafoss, sometimes referred to as the ‘Waterfall of the Gods’, is a stunning horseshoe-shaped cascade in North Iceland. Falling from a height of 12 meters (40 feet), the waterfall spans a width of 30 meters (100 feet).

You’ll find Goðafoss on the Skjálfandafljót river, just off the Ring Road (Route 1). It’s undeniably one of the most spectacular waterfalls in Iceland, and is a jewel in the crown of the Diamond Circle route around the country’s north.

The meaning and origin of the waterfall’s name is open for debate. In modern Icelandic, ‘Goðafoss’ can be interpreted as either ‘waterfall of the gods’ or ‘waterfall of the goðar’. The ‘gods’ reading would refer to the Norse gods that the pagan Vikings worshiped.

The other interpretation refers to goðar, the first chieftains of Iceland in the Viking era. A since-disproved 19th-century folk tale says that the waterfall got its name from the lawspeaker Þorgeir Ljósvetningagoði.

In the year 1000, he introduced Christianity in Iceland and made it the official religion. It is said that he threw his statues of the Norse gods into the waterfall after making this change at the Alþingi, the Icelandic parliament. There’s no record of this story in the Icelandic sagas though, so it appears to have been made up!

By far the best way to reach this beautiful waterfall is by car. Once you arrive in the parking lot, you’ll find a walking trail which will guide you to the best views of Goðafoss.

  • North Iceland

Dettifoss

Your guide to Dettifoss falls

Sitting on the Diamond Circle route in North Iceland, Dettifoss is a jaw-droppingly powerful set of falls that span over 100 meters (330 feet) in width. Dettifoss claims the title of most powerful waterfall in Europe, after Switzerland’s Rhine Falls.

Dettifoss is located in Vatnajökull National Park, a vast protected area that stretches all the way to Iceland’s south coast. The waterfall is one of several on the river Jökulsá á Fjöllum, which ultimately runs into the remarkable Jökulsárgljúfur canyon.

The waterfall serves as the backdrop to the opening scene of the 2012 film Prometheus, where a human-like alien falls into the watery plume.

  • North Iceland

Húsavík

Your guide to Húsavík, Iceland

In many ways, the coastal town of Húsavík punches well above its weight. Although it’s famous as the whale watching capital of Iceland, it is also known for being the backdrop to the Eurovision film.

Located on Skjálfandi bay in North Iceland, Húsavík can be reached via the 85 road. This connects to the Ring Road (or Route 1) around halfway between Akureyri and Lake Mývatn.

Húsavík is known for its beautiful harbor, lined with traditional wooden buildings. The standout is the church, Húsavíkurkirkja, which was built in 1907.

Even though Húsavík is a small fishing town, it has played an outsized role in history. In the 1960s, Apollo astronauts trained in the moonlike landscapes in the local area. Today, you’ll find a monument outside the Exploration Museum.

Another of the town’s claims to fame is the film Eurovision Song Contest: The Story of Fire Saga. The main characters in the film, played by Will Ferrell and Rachel McAdams, hail from Húsavík. Nominated for an Academy Award, the film and pays tribute to the town with its own original song.

What to see and do in Húsavík

The biggest reason to visit Húsavík is without doubt the spectacular whale watching opportunities. Lots of different species visit the bay around the town, including humpback whales, blue whales, and orcas. You could also see white-beaked dolphins.

Whale watching tours run regularly from the harbor. It’s here that you’ll also find the Whale Museum, where you can learn all there is to know about these gentle giants.

Other things to do in Húsavík include visiting the Exploration Museum, relaxing in the local swimming pool, and grabbing a bite at a local restaurant.

  • South Iceland

Vík í Mýrdal

Your guide to Vík, Iceland

With its colorful buildings and red-roofed church overlooking the village, you’ll find there’s an undeniable charm about Vík í Mýrdal. Though its picturesque appearance stands in contrast with the region’s rugged landscapes and its position beneath an active volcano.

This volcano is called Katla, derived from the Icelandic word for a kettle. Appropriate, as it’s thought to erupt every 50–100 years, which is pretty frequent in geological terms. The people who live here have drills to practice what to do in case there’s an eruption. 

Aside from the volcano, you’ll notice that there are countless other sights and attractions to explore when you’re visiting Vík. 

In the village itself, you could try the local cuisine, learn about the region’s geology at the visitor center, or go horseback riding. And not far away, you could look for puffins, take a guided tour of ice caves, or walk along the iconic Reynisfjara beach.

On top of its incredible natural beauty, the area is also known for handcrafted knitwear. So why not treat yourself to a lovingly-made woolen garment from the Katla wool factory? Their Icelandic designs are made using wool from native sheep. What better way to remember your trip to Vík than with a practical keepsake?

  • South Iceland

Skaftafell

Your guide to Skaftafell nature reserve

Found within Iceland’s vast Vatnajökull National Park, Skaftafell is a wilderness area where the country’s native plant and animal species flourish. During your visit, you can expect to see expansive stretches of moss, striking basalt columns, and birch forests.

The region is also home to a variety of birds. Plus, you could even spot one of Iceland’s elusive Arctic foxes. It’s not hard to see why Skaftafell is a favorite among nature lovers.

Skaftafell is known for its extensive network of hiking trails. You could easily spend hours walking the paths all over the area. You’ll find there are paths to suit most fitness levels, with trails for novices and experienced hikers alike.

Beyond Skaftafell, in the wider Vatnajökull National Park, you’ll find the largest glacier in Europe, and the highest peak in Iceland!

The south coast of Iceland has lots to offer, so get ready to check off even more of your must-see sights and wishlist excursions. Just imagine marveling at glacier lagoons and exploring ice caves.

A visit to Skaftafell truly lets you experience the majesty of Iceland. You’ll be able to soak up breathtaking natural landscapes, enjoy thrilling activities, and take in dramatic volcanic scenery.

Ready to plan your visit to Skaftafell? To help get you started, we’ve answered some of the most frequently asked questions about the wilderness area.

  • South Iceland

Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon

Your guide to Jökulsárlón iceberg lagoon

When it comes to seeing some of the most breathtaking sights Iceland has to offer, Jökulsárlón glacier lagoon has got to be up there!

This glacial lagoon is a result of meltwater from the Breiðamerkurjökull glacier, part of Iceland’s largest glacier – Vatnajökull. But what really makes it special is the striking blue color of the water, not to mention the icebergs bobbing on the surface. 

During your visit, you could lose yourself in the lagoon’s natural beauty by taking an amphibian boat tour. Or simply soak up the scenery from the shoreline. From here, you can look out for seabirds, or maybe even catch a glimpse of the Northern Lights if it’s dark enough. 

Make sure you include a visit to Jökulsárlón glacier lagoon in your Iceland itinerary. You won’t regret taking the time to see this natural wonder with your own eyes!

  • South Iceland

Seljalandsfoss

Your guide to Seljalandsfoss waterfall

Located in South Iceland, the astounding Seljalandsfoss waterfall measures in at a whopping 60 meters (195 feet) high. If you’re looking to visit one of Iceland’s most iconic natural sights, visiting Seljalandsfoss is an absolute must-do.

Seljalandsfoss is a breathtaking glacial waterfall on the Þórsmerkurvegur road just off of Iceland’s south coast. The volcano that it borders is a site of great interest for its world-changing effects after it last erupted in 2010!

The Seljalandsá river, which the waterfalls sits on, is fed mainly by the glacier Eyjafjallajökull. You’ll notice that it dramatically tumbles over the edge of a sheer cliff face. This is undeniably one of the most picturesque and jaw-dropping waterfalls in Iceland.

This stunning and pristine natural waterfall is something quite spectacular to behold. Plus, the hollowed out shape of the cliff means that you can even walk behind the waterfall. Just follow the marked paths around the site.

With all of its majesty, it’s no wonder that Seljalandsfoss has featured in popular culture. The waterfall was used as a waypoint during season 6 of The Amazing Race, starred in season 3 of Star Trek, and even popped up in Justin Bieber’s music video for the song “I’ll Show You”.

  • South Iceland

Skógafoss

Your guide to Skógafoss waterfall, Iceland

At 60 meters (197 feet) tall and 25 meters (82 feet) wide you’ll be instantly impressed by the size of Skógafoss. The waterfall is striking year-round. But if you’re here on a day when the sun’s shining on the cascade you could see rainbows in the spray – magical!

During your visit, you can hike up to a platform overlooking the falls below. Just make sure to bring your camera – you’ll definitely want to capture the stunning view.  

There’s more to this waterfall than meets the eye. This breathtaking curtain of water also features in age-old folklore. According to a Norse legend, Þrasi Þórólfsson – the first Viking in Iceland –  threw a chest of treasure into the river. 

It’s said that over the years many people tried and failed to fish the wooden chest out of the waterfall. Until, one day, someone climbed into the cascade. But they could only grasp the handle on the side of the chest. And because the wood was so rotten, the handle broke off and the treasure plummeted to the bottom of the falls, never to be found. 

For a while, the ring-shaped handle was on the door of the nearby church, Skógakirkja. Nowadays, if you visit Skógar Museum, you can see the ring the locals claim came from the chest for yourself. The museum is also worth exploring if you’d like to learn more about the culture of the area. 

You might also be surprised to learn that the cliffs Skógafoss flows over, were part of Iceland’s coastline during the last Ice Age. Since then, melting ice caused the country’s landmass to rise. This drop in sea level means that you’ll now find the waterfall 5 kilometers (3 miles) inland.

  • South Iceland

Geysir and Strokkur

Your guide to the Geysir geothermal area

Witnessing the incredible sight of Strokkur erupting into the sky at Geysir has got to be one of the ultimate highlights of any trip to Iceland!

Make sure you include a visit to this geothermal area to see the forces of nature that have shaped Iceland. Seeing it first hand, you can see why it’s been given the nickname of ‘The Land of Fire and Ice’.

Geysir and the Strokkur area are key points on the Golden Circle. This route, close to the capital Reykjavik, takes in several of the natural wonders and highlights of Iceland. 

If you’re visiting Iceland, be sure to find the time for a Golden Circle tour. You’ll get to see the power of Geysir and the geothermal activity at Strokkur.

We’ve answered some of the key questions people often ask about Strokkur and Geysir in our FAQ section below.

  • South Iceland

Þingvellir National Park

Your guide to Þingvellir, Iceland

Perhaps no other single location in Iceland is more important than Þingvellir National Park when it comes to culture, history, and nature. You’ll definitely want to add this place to your itinerary if you want to figure out what Iceland is all about.

At Þingvellir (Thingvellir) National Park, you’ll find breathtaking views and historic sites in spades. It’s one of the 3 stops on the famous Golden Circle route. This is thanks to its one-of-a-kind natural features, like the Mid-Atlantic Rift.

When you visit the national park, you can see incredible volcanic landscapes, the power of tectonic plates, and beautiful lakes and rivers. The park is exceptionally well preserved and visitors come all year round to see this piece of wild Iceland. 

Þingvellir is even recognized as an UNESCO World Heritage Site for its unique status and importance to the Icelandic nation and the world.

Whether you’re visiting to see the culture, nature, history, or geology, there’s something for everyone at Þingvellir National Park. Make sure you include a stop as a must-do when on your Iceland adventure!

Feeling ready to set off to Þingvellir? We’ve covered some key FAQs to help you get started below.

  • South Iceland

Gullfoss

Your guide to Gullfoss falls

Iceland has thousands of waterfalls, but perhaps none is as famous as the Gullfoss waterfall. It’s one of the 3 main stops on the Golden Circle tour in Iceland.

The waterfall is well known for its beauty and power, but also for the history surrounding it. Whichever interests you more, you won’t want to miss on seeing this spectacular feature when visiting Iceland!

With its steep-sided canyon and stepped descent from the top of Gullfoss, the water from the Hvítá river rushes through to create an amazing sight. 

A 90-degree bend in the canyon forces the water to crash down into the valley below. This makes Gullfoss one of the more powerful and famous waterfalls in Iceland. 

Whether you’re visiting in winter or summer, seeing Gullfoss up close is a sight you’ll never get tired of. Book onto a day tour to see the waterfall and you won’t regret it.

Keen to visit the famous golden falls on your trip to Iceland? We’ve answered some key FAQs for you below to help you get started.

Adding extra nights to your tour

Rest up after your flight or wind down after an action-packed adventure by adding extra nights at the start or end of your trip. You’ll stay in comfortable accommodation in central Reykjavík, giving you more time to explore the lively city.

*Self-drive customers, please note that your rental car is not included with the extra nights.

Accommodation for extra nights

We’ll try to book you into the same hotel that you’ve already stayed in, depending on availability. Wherever you stay, the quality will match the other accommodation on your tour. Plus, a tasty daily breakfast is always included to fuel you up for more exploring.

If you have any airport transfers in your package, we’ll adjust the dates to include your extra nights.

Travelling in a group?

If some members of your group are planning on leaving Iceland on different days, please get in touch. We’re happy to add extra nights for individual members of your group once your main trip has been booked
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