Are you dreaming of seeing the Northern Lights in Iceland? Do you want to discover the famous attractions of the South Coast in the wintertime? This 6-day road trip makes your winter dreams come true.
The black sand beach of Reynisfjara and the blue ice caves of Vatnajökull await you in South Iceland, as well as the waterfalls Seljalandsfoss and Skógafoss. All these sights are dressed in their winter coat, spotted with ice and snow, and give a totally different impression than in the summer. You will also see the glacier lagoon Jökulsárlón, the erupting geyser Strokkur, and Gullfoss waterfall.
Next to all these natural highlights, there is also always the chance to see the Northern Lights at night! They display their colorful show in dark winter nights when the skies are clear and solar activity is high. Your accommodation is in locations, where your chances of seeing them are maximized.
Our team will book everything you need to experience this winter adventure, from the car to hotels and your chosen activities. With our Roadbook we also make sure you do not miss any highlights along the route and arrive safely at your destination. Driving in winter can be challenging, but we planned this itinerary picking the safest route, and we will always be in reach to assist with any hurdles. If you do not feel confident driving in snow or ice, we recommend this guided winter tour.
Are you ready for your winter vacation? Then read on below!
Accommodation: Reykjavík
Driving Distance: approx. 50 km
Optional Activities: Blue Lagoon
Let the adventure begin! After your arrival in Iceland, you will pick up your rental car at the airport. No matter what time you land, your vehicle will be waiting for you, ready to take you to magical places.
On the way to the capital, you will pass by the famous Blue Lagoon. Use the chance and relax in milky blue waters, gazing at the winter skies to catch your first glimpse of the Northern Lights! You will spend the night in Reykjavík.
Accommodation: Kirkjubæjarklaustur
Driving Distance: approx. 260 km
Optional Activities: Glacier Hiking, Horseback Riding
Today you will kick-start your Northern Lights tour with a drive towards the magical South Coast of Iceland. The beautiful waterfalls Seljalandsfoss and Skógafoss are dressed up in their icy winter coats, and the black sand beach of Reynisfjara is awaiting you in its wintry glory.
Enjoy a warm drink in a cozy café in the village of Vík, before heading to your accommodation for the night, and base for the upcoming adventures. If you want to add a little spice, you can choose a horseback riding tour or a glacier hike!
Accommodation: Kirkjubæjarklaustur
Driving Distance: approx. 250 km
Optional Activities: Ice Caving
Day 3 takes you to the most famous place on the South Coast: the beautiful glacier lagoon Jökulsárlón. In winter, this icy wonderland displays its icebergs in an even more magical way. You should also keep your eyes open for seals! The nearby Diamond Beach gives you amazing photo opportunities with black sand and scattered icebergs, glittering in the sun.
Before you head back and call it a day, you should use the chance and embark on a unique ice cave tour! These caves change every year but display amazing blue structures on the inside. With an experienced guide, you will be heading to the cave in a super jeep and discover the inside of Vatnajökull glacier.
Accommodation: Golden Circle
Driving Distance: approx. 220 km
Optional Activities: Snowmobiling, Glacier Hiking
On this day, you will drive towards the Southwest again. Stops along the route can include highlights that might have been left out on day 2, and you can also add additional tours! What about an exciting snowmobile tour on top of Mýrdalsjökull glacier? While you zip over the white snow plains you will enjoy spectacular views of the South Coast.
Alternatively, you can also take it slow and end your day in the charming village of Flúðir, to relax your legs in the warm waters of the Secret Lagoon. Your accommodation will be in a perfect place to discover the Golden Circle on the next day.
Accommodation: Reykjavík
Driving Distance: approx. 150 km
Optional Activities: Snorkeling
Day 5 is awaiting you with the last highlight: The famous Golden Circle. First, you will see the spectacular Gullfoss waterfall, which will impress you with its two tiers and a lot of spray. In winter, icicles and other ice structures decorate its shores. Then, continue to the Geysir geothermal area, where you will find bubbling hot springs and, of course, the legendary Strokkur. This active Geysir erupts every 5-10 minutes and provides amazing photo opportunities.
The last stop on the Golden Circle is the Þingvellir National Park. The rift between the continual plates of North America and Eurasia is located here, and you can walk through the gorge Almannagjá, in between the continents! You end your day in Reykjavík and can enjoy your last night.
Driving Distance: approx. 50 km
Optional Activities: Blue Lagoon
It is time to say goodbye, but if you have some time left, you should use it to take a tour around the charming streets of downtown Reykjavík. Soak in the winter spirit, and enjoy the light installments of Laugavegur shopping street, before you head to the airport.
You can drop off your car directly at the airport, and board your flight with countless Icelandic winter memories!
The hotels are of a good standard and offer towels, hairdryers, and free WiFi. Examples include Storm Hotel, Stracta Hotel, and Hali Country Hotel.
If you book with an odd number of travelers, we provide an extra room. E.g. 3 travelers get 2 rooms.
In our comfort category, we book rooms with private bathroom in hotels and boutique guesthouses. Breakfast is included.
The hotels are of a good standard and offer towels, hairdryers, and free WiFi. Examples include Storm Hotel, Stracta Hotel, and Hali Country Hotel.
If you book with an odd number of travelers, we provide an extra room. E.g. 3 travelers get 2 rooms.
Dacia Duster (manual) or similar, SCDW insurance and gravel protection are included.
Recommended for up to 4 adult travelers.
Toyota RAV4 (automatic) or similar, SCDW insurance and gravel protection are included.
Recommended for up to 4 adult travelers.
Toyota Yaris (automatic) or similar, SCDW insurance and gravel protection are included.
Recommended for up to 3 adult travelers.
Dacia Duster (manual) or similar, SCDW insurance and gravel protection are included.
Recommended for up to 4 adult travelers.
Toyota RAV4 (automatic) or similar, SCDW insurance and gravel protection are included.
Recommended for up to 4 adult travelers.
Have a question about this product? Feel free to drop us a line. We are always ready to assist!