SUGGESTED ITINERARY
WHAT, WHERE & WHEN
Day 1
Upon your arrival at Keflavik Airport, you'll pick up your rental car and embark on a scenic drive into Reykjavík, where you’ll spend your first night. Depending on your arrival time, you’ll have the chance to explore the vibrant city and discover its many highlights, including the iconic Hallgrímskirkja, one of Reykjavík’s most recognisable landmarks.
Day 2
After breakfast, you'll head towards the renowned Golden Circle to explore its must-see landmarks. From the dramatic Gullfoss waterfall to the erupting geysers of Geysir, each stop will leave you in awe of Iceland’s natural beauty. At the end of the day, you'll arrive at Hotel Ranga, your base for the next couple of nights. This marks the beginning of your journey through prime spots for witnessing the Northern Lights. Be sure to request a room call-out in case the auroras make a magical appearance during the night.
Day 3
Today, you have the exciting option to enhance your adventure with either a group or private super jeep tour, taking you off the main roads and into the heart of Iceland's rugged wilderness. This thrilling experience allows you to explore hidden gems like Þórsmörk, a stunning valley surrounded by glaciers and mountains. With an experienced guide, you might trek up to Eyjafjallajökull, gaining a unique perspective of this iconic volcano and the dramatic landscapes that surround it. The off-road journey promises breathtaking views and an unforgettable connection to Iceland's natural beauty.
Day 4
Today you will drive from your hotel down to Vik and your next property. The drive is a short one but there is so much to visit along the way that it will keep you occupied for the day. There is the Lava Centre which is a recommended visit to learn about the volcanic activity on Iceland, then Seljalandsfoss waterfall and Gljufrabui to explore. Further down from there will be the next famous waterfall Skogarfoss and if you fancy a bit of hike to see the Solheimasandur Plane Wreck this will be along the route as well. You will end up in Vik where the famous black sands beaches are based which you can explore the next day.
Day 5
You have the day at leisure here which can start by exploring Reynisfjara Beach, famous for its dramatic black sands, towering basalt columns, and the mesmerising Reynisdrangar sea stacks rising from the ocean. As you walk along the beach, take in the powerful waves crashing against the shore and enjoy the captivating coastal views. After soaking up the beauty of Reynisfjara, consider adding an ice cave visit to your itinerary. Depending on the season, a guided tour can take you into one of the nearby glaciers, where you can marvel at the stunning blue ice formations and learn about the unique geology of these fascinating structures.
In the afternoon, return to Vík and explore the charming village, where you can visit local shops or enjoy a meal at a café with views of the surrounding landscape. If time permits, consider a short hike to the Dyrhólaey promontory, where you'll be rewarded with breathtaking views of the coastline, the arch-shaped rock formations, and abundant birdlife, including puffins during the nesting season.
Day 6
Today, you'll journey from Vík to Skaftafell. The drive is relatively short, allowing you to linger a bit longer in Vík if you'd like to explore more of its charming surroundings. Once you've enjoyed your time there, you'll make your way to the stunning Fosshotel Glacier Lagoon, where you'll check in and have the rest of the day at your leisure. Relax or take in the landscapes that surround you, with plenty of time to unwind before the next day’s adventures.
Day 7
You have the day at leisure in the Jökulsárlón and Skaftafell area which is a perfect blend of adventure and relaxation in one of Iceland's most stunning landscapes. Start your morning at Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon, where you can witness the icebergs floating in the crystal-clear water. For an unforgettable experience, consider booking a Zodiac boat trip that takes you closer to these fascinating ice formations, allowing you to witness their beauty up close while potentially spotting seals swimming in the lagoon. After the boat tour, you can take a leisurely stroll along the nearby Diamond Beach, where ice chunks wash ashore, creating a breath-taking contrast against the black sand. In the afternoon, make your way to Skaftafell National Park, where you can choose from various hiking trails that cater to different fitness levels.
Day 8
You can enjoy a leisurely morning exploring more of this famous corner of Iceland. We recommend a visit to the stunning Svartifoss Waterfall before continuing your journey to Höfn. Though the drive is short, it’s a perfect way to break up the route as you head east. Along the way, we suggest stopping at Hornafjörður Fjord and Höfn Harbour, both offering breathtaking views. In the afternoon, don’t miss the Stokksnes Peninsula and Vestrahorn Mountain, which, in our opinion, are among the most scenic spots in all of Iceland.
Day 9
Today, you'll depart from Höfn and head towards East Iceland for your next stop. The nearly three-hour drive takes you through winding fjords along the coastline, offering plenty of opportunities for fantastic photo stops, including the scenic Fauskasandur. Upon arriving in Egilsstaðir, you can settle in for lunch and check into your hotel for the night. In the afternoon, venture out to Seyðisfjörður, a breathtaking spot in the east, known for its role in the Nordic Noir series Trapped and ideal for hiking and exploring.
Day 10
As you depart from Egilsstaðir, your journey to Mývatn takes you through some of Iceland's most striking landscapes. The drive showcases dramatic scenery as you pass through remote stretches of wilderness, winding roads, and mountain passes.
We recommend stopping at Dettifoss, one of Europe’s most powerful waterfalls, this roaring force of nature is well worth the detour and offers a short walk to get up close to the falls.
As you approach the Mývatn area, the landscape shifts to otherworldly features shaped by volcanic activity. Once you arrive, you’ll be greeted by the serene Mývatn lake, surrounded by geothermal wonders. After checking into your accommodation, spend the rest of your afternoon exploring the bubbling mud pools at Hverir, the volcanic crater at Hverfjall, or simply relaxing in the soothing waters of the Mývatn Nature Baths, Iceland’s lesser-known but equally enchanting alternative to the Blue Lagoon.
Day 11
Today, you have the opportunity to unwind and fully explore the fascinating Mývatn area at your own pace. Whether you’re seeking a day of relaxation or looking to venture further afield, the region offers plenty of options. If you’re up for a scenic drive, we recommend heading to Húsavík, Iceland’s whale-watching capital, with a stop at the breathtaking Goðafoss waterfall along the way. This striking waterfall, also known as the "Waterfall of the Gods," is a perfect spot for photography and reflection.
Once in Húsavík, you can choose to embark on a whale-watching excursion, where you’ll have the chance to spot humpback whales, orcas, and even blue whales in the wild. If you’d like to add this experience to your itinerary, one of our team can easily arrange it for you. Alternatively, you may prefer to wait and enjoy a whale-watching tour in Akureyri, which can be scheduled for the following day.
If you decide to stay closer to Mývatn, there are still plenty of activities to fill your day. You can visit the unique geothermal areas, hike through lava formations, or relax in the soothing waters of the Mývatn Nature Baths. No matter what you choose, this day offers a balance of relaxation and exploration in one of Iceland’s most captivating regions.
Day 12
As you begin your journey north, your next destination is the charming town of Siglufjörður. On the way, you’ll have the chance to stop in Akureyri, Iceland’s vibrant second city. Here, you can enjoy a leisurely stroll through the town’s picturesque streets, visit the botanical gardens, or explore local shops and cafés. If you didn’t opt for whale watching in Húsavík the day before, this is a great opportunity to book an excursion from Akureyri, where you can follow the fjords and potentially spot humpback whales, dolphins, and even the elusive blue whale.
After your time in Akureyri, you’ll continue your drive to Siglufjörður, located on one of Iceland’s northernmost peninsulas. Known for its rich fishing history and stunning coastal views, Siglufjörður offers a peaceful retreat. You’ll check in for a couple of nights at the beautiful Hotel Siglo, where you can unwind and take a break from the epic adventure you’ve had so far. Whether you explore the town’s heritage, relax by the harbour, or simply take in the stunning fjord views, Siglufjörður is the perfect place to recharge.
Day 13
A rest day in Siglufjörður offers a peaceful retreat during your self-drive around Iceland. Known for its fascinating fishing history, the town’s highlights include the Herring Era Museum, where you can explore Iceland’s maritime past and the legacy of Siglufjörður as the herring capital. After taking in the town’s history, a leisurely walk along the picturesque harbour provides stunning views of the fjord and colourful boats.
You can relax at a local café or enjoy the tranquil atmosphere of your hotel, where the outdoor hot tubs overlooking the mountains and sea offer a perfect spot to unwind.
For those that are a little more active and want to stretch their legs, a gentle hike along the Siglufjörður to Héðinsfjörður trail is a great way to take in the surrounding nature without overexerting yourself. If you’re in the mood for something cultural, explore the town’s small art galleries or visit the Folk Music Centre to learn about Icelandic musical traditions. To finish the day, enjoy a meal at one of the town’s restaurants, indulging in fresh seafood while admiring the fjord views.
Day 14
After breakfast at Sigló, you’ll begin your scenic journey back to the south. While this day involves more driving, it’s beautifully broken up with stops at breath-taking spots along the way. Your first stop is at Hvitserkur, a striking rock formation and a dream location for photography enthusiasts. From there, continue on to Hvammstangi for a leisurely lunch. Afterward, you’ll make your way to Hotel Husafell, your final stop on this unforgettable itinerary. Not only is Hotel Husafell another excellent spot to witness the Northern Lights, but it also boasts geothermal pools—perfect for unwinding after a long day on the road. Now time to reflect on your epic Icelandic adventure.
Day 15
Your epic journey has come to an end as you make your way down to Keflavik Airport for your afternoon flight.
