After your arrival, your rental car will be ready for you and your adventure will begin. It doesn’t matter what time you arrive, we have planned the day accordingly. You can either head straight towards Reykjavík if you want to dive headfirst into exploring the city, or you can even take a tour of the Reykjanes peninsula where you will find the volcano that has been making all those headlines: Fagradalsfjall. That’s a pretty good start to your trip.

Alternatively, you can plan a visit to the volcano on your last day, or keep a full day separate and book an additional “Volcano Day” with us. Either way, you will spend the evening in the capital of Reykjavík.

Today’s journey begins with a tour around the Golden Circle, Iceland’s most famous day trip. This site brings together three of the most treasured sights, as well as plenty of opportunities for additional activities because you will be spending the night in the area.

Þingvellir National Park is a key location regarding Iceland’s geological and political past, as well as being one of the most unique snorkeling spots in the world, the crystal clear Silfra fissure. In Haukadalur valley lies the famous Strokkur geyser, firing boiling geothermal water up to 40 meters into the air (selfie time!) Gullfoss waterfall is your third (and perhaps not final) stop, where you will witness the magnificent sights of glacial water tumble down 30 meters into the mighty gorge below. Gullfoss is even the meeting place for a snowmobiling trip up onto Langjökull, Europe’s second-largest glacier. 

Aside from these “must-see” destinations, you can also visit the volcano crater of Kerið, Faxi waterfall, or Friðheimar tomato farm.

Today, you will head along the South Coast of Iceland towards its most southernmost tip and the charming little town of Vík. The highlights along the way are some of Iceland’s other iconic landmarks.

The waterfalls of Seljalandsfoss and Skógafoss, whilst unalike, are both uniquely spectacular. If you don’t mind getting wet, you can also visit the nearby Gljúfrabúi waterfall, hidden in a nearby cave. Mýrdalsjökull glacier is now in sight, where you can opt for an easy and fun glacier hike or thrilling snowmobile adventure. In Vík lies another treasure, a natural ice cave. Moody and atmospheric shades of obsidian, ash, black and blue adorn this impressive, natural structure.

Close to the town of Vík is also the black, volcanic beach of Reynisfjara and the troll cliffs of Reynisdrangar. Whilst this region has appeared on many Instagram accounts, today it's your turn! If you are lucky, you may even spot the occasional puffin, Iceland’s most endearing summer resident, between the months of May and August. 

What a treasure awaits you today, a visit to the glacier lagoon of Jökulsárlón. Before you reach the lagoon, you can take a short hike to the beautiful Svartifoss waterfall, in Skaftafell nature reserve. This was the inspiration for the architecture of the famous Hallgrímskirkja church in the center of Reykjavík, due to its basalt column frame. Alternatively, you could opt for a glacier hike in Skaftafell, giving the ultimate view of the South Coast.

In the shadow of the mighty Vatnajökull glacier, the largest glacier in Europe, you will eventually reach the glacier lagoon. Icebergs of all shapes and sizes glitter in the sun, as they lazily float their way out towards the Atlantic ocean, where the current breaks them down and scatters the sparkling pieces across the Diamond Beach. You can even take a boat trip that weaves in between the icebergs, often spotting the occasional seal, who like to visit this area and bask on their own little ice beds.

Day 5 will take you through the stunning Eastfjords. This area is, geologically, the oldest part of Iceland. Magnificent and picturesque fjords, enchanting settlements, and a breathtaking view of the Atlantic. The day can begin with a little detour to Mount Vestrahorn. This mountain range, with a black beach at its feet, offers an irresistible Instagram opportunity. From here, the road continues east.

In the Eastfjords, you will find the playground of Iceland’s wild reindeer. Originally imported from Scandinavia, the breeding project got a little out of control, and they can be found grazing in the higher plains in summer, and the lowlands in the winter. Egilsstaðir is the “Capital of the East” and there you will find the beautiful Lagarfljót lake and Hallormsstaðaskógur forest. Legend tells of a monster who dwells in the lake, and the forest is the largest forest in Iceland. In the evening, you can take a dip in the geothermal baths at Vök.

Today, you journey north to one of its most popular areas: Lake Mývatn. Not far from this sprawling lake you will also find the geothermal field of Námaskarð. Bubbling, hissing, and popping fumaroles surround you in this very alien landscape, coupled with the pungent aroma of rotten eggs. We promise that the smell is not that bad, and the sights in this area make it totally worth it. Lake Mývatn itself is a shallow lake surrounded by birch forests and other lava formations. Rich in birdlife, there is even a quirky bird museum on the northwest shore.

After you leave this beautiful location, the road continues to the “Capital of the North” – Akureyri. Along the way, you can stop at Goðafoss waterfall and its beautiful, blue water. Akureryi is the perfect spot for a delicious dinner and to settle in and see how they do things on the other side of the island.

Akureyri has plenty of shops, bars, and museums, so you certainly won’t be bored spending the day in this charming town. Take a trip to meet the gentle giants on the Atlantic ocean on a whale watching tour, or meet the beloved Icelandic horse for a ride in the countryside. You can take a rewarding drive around the Trölaskagi peninsula and its breathtaking panoramas.

The most famous town in this area is Siglufjörður, and the charming and European Museum Award-winning herring museum gives you an opportunity to learn about the primary industry that supported this little town. On the west coast of Tröllaskagi, you can visit the swimming pool in Hofsós, and in the Skagafjörður valley the museum farm Glaumbær awaits you with its pretty turf houses. You will stay in the Northwest, near the coastal town of Blönduós.

Day 8 will take you to the island’s remote Westfjords. Along the way, you can make a detour to the Vatnsnes peninsula, known for its seal colonies. Here is where you will also find the Hvítserkur rock, a fossilized rock that resembles a troll or an elephant drinking from the sea. A great photo opportunity, especially if you go all the way down to the beach from the observation deck. Remember to keep your eyes open for sunbathing seals down on the shore before heading to the village of Hólmavík.

The largest town in the Strandir region, Hólmavík is an interesting town with supernatural history. Stories of witchcraft, sorcery, and witch hunts mean that you shouldn’t miss a visit to the Museum of Sorcery & Witchcraft, taking you on a tour of this region's mystical past.

Today, the winding roads will lead you to the largest settlement in the Westfjords: Ísafjörður. The journey there is really the goal because it is such a unique and beautiful landscape. Marvel at the stunning mountain ranges as you wind and twist your way through lonely roads. You can even stop in Heydalur valley where you will find an inn with surrounding hot springs that you can take advantage of when using the restaurant.

Further along the route, you can visit the Arctic Fox Center in Súðavík. Here you can learn all about the Westfjords' most famous resident, the only native mammal to Iceland, as well as of course being in the best place to see the real thing. Arctic foxes in the Westfjords are a bit more used to human beings, so they can be a little more bold and curious, so if you are lucky enough to meet one or two it will surely sweeten your day. In the evening, you can enjoy a delicious dinner in Ísafjörður, the Capital of the West.

Today’s highlight is one of the jewels of the Westfjords, the mighty Dynjandi waterfall. Just before, in the settlement of Þingeyri, we recommend you order a waffle in the delightfully charming café of Simbahöllin. You can also take a detour to find a real curiosity: The botanical garden of Skrúður is probably one of the most secluded botanical gardens in the world and a real oasis in the barren, but beautiful surroundings of the Westfjords.

Arriving at Dynjandi parking lot, you can take a short walk to its widest platform, as seen in many photos. However, Dynjandi cascades down into the valley over many narrow precipices, and it is a wondrous sight. Before you reach your accommodation, you can stretch your legs in the warm waters of Reykjafjarðarlaug geothermal pool and enjoy the fantastic view!

Today begins with a visit to the 441 m high bird cliffs at Látrabjarg nature reserve, on the westernmost point of Iceland. These steep cliffs are the ideal breeding ground for puffins and many other bird species, which you can photograph easily. Nearby, it is worth taking a detour to the red and gold Rauðisandur beach, stretching 10 kilometers below the mountain range. If you really can’t get enough of Iceland’s hot pots, then the great news is that you will find two great options here along the route: Krosslaug and Hellulaug.

Also today, you will have a choice. You can take the journey over Breiðafjörður bay (ferry ticket included) or if the schedule does not suit you, you can continue the journey along the southern coast of the Westfjords if you want to have more time in this area. When you arrive in Stykkishólmur, depending on the time of arrival, you can treat yourself to dinner in a picturesque harbor restaurant or simply crash at your hotel after such an eventful day.

Starting the day with a casual stroll, exploring the charming village of Stykkishólmur, you can also visit the offshore island of Súgandisey with its very photogenic lighthouse. Back on the road and the highlights don’t stop, as you begin by visiting the mountain of Kirkjufell, made famous as the “Arrowhead Mountain” from Game of Thrones, and the lovely Kirkjufellsfoss by the path. You will also visit the Lóndrangar rock peaks and the black beach of Djúpalónssandur. Here, you will also find Gatklettur archway, and you can take a spectacular photo over the narrow bridge over the Atlantic. Most Insta-worthy!

The mighty Snæfellsjökull glacier rises at the tip of the peninsula and will accompany you every step of the way. It is here that you can embark on a unique tour on a snowcat, all the way to the summit of the glacier, where you can enjoy outstanding views. Snæfellsnes is also one of the best locations to go whale watching for Orcas, and on the bottom of the peninsula on Ytri Tunga beach is a great place to spot seals lounging in the sun.

Today is your final day in the wilderness before once again reaching civilization. The Borgarfjörður fjord, overgrown with birch groves, is where you will find the waterfalls of Hraunfossar and Barnafoss. The settlement of Reykholt is where you will find the Snorrastofa museum and the final resting place of Snorri Sturluson, one of Iceland’s most famous writers of sagas, a historian, and politician.

It is also where you will find Snorralaug, a traditionally constructed hot pot that has been around since at least the 12th century. Bathing in the pool is not allowed, but if you want to take a dip, you can visit the nearby Krauma geothermal baths.

Finally, Reykjavík awaits, and you can spend your final evening enjoying the nightlife and getting any last-minute gifts in one of the many stores on the shopping street of Laugavegur.

Depending on your flight time, you can take a last stroll through the capital or pay a visit to the world-famous Blue Lagoon. Or, perhaps it is time for one last adventure to the recently erupted volcano Fagradalsfjall.

It may be time to leave, but we hope that you won’t be too down about it. You will have had quite the adventure and leave with more than a few stories to tell your loved ones about this magical place!