Westfjords, Scenic Fjords & Waterfalls Self-Drive Around Iceland
Embark on the ultimate Iceland adventure with this comprehensive 14-day self-drive tour combining the complete Ring Road with the wild, remote beauty of the Westfjords. This epic journey takes you to every corner of Iceland, from the dramatic sea cliffs and pristine fjords of the country's most isolated region to the volcanic wonders of the north and the glacial landscapes of the south. With two full weeks to explore, you'll experience Iceland at its most authentic and unhurried.
The Westfjords are the jewel in the crown of this 14-day adventure. Accessible by a scenic ferry ride across Breiðafjörður Bay, this remote peninsula feels like stepping back in time. Witness the spectacular Látrabjarg bird cliffs, home to millions of seabirds including adorable puffins, and stand in awe before the magnificent Dynjandi waterfall as it cascades down the mountainside in multiple tiers. Drive along winding coastal roads where the only traffic might be an Arctic fox crossing your path, and discover fishing villages where traditions remain strong and the pace of life is beautifully slow.
Your adventure begins on the Snæfellsnes peninsula, often called 'Iceland in Miniature,' where diverse landscapes including dramatic sea cliffs, volcanic craters, and the mystical Snæfellsjökull glacier set the stage for your epic journey. From there, your route continues around the Ring Road, taking in all of Iceland's greatest hits. Explore the geothermal wonderland of Lake Mývatn, where bubbling mud pools and steaming vents showcase volcanic power. Marvel at the mighty Dettifoss, stand among floating icebergs at Jökulsárlón glacier lagoon, and hike near massive glaciers at Skaftafell. The dramatic Eastfjords offer stunning coastal scenery, while the south coast delivers iconic waterfalls like Skógafoss and Seljalandsfoss.
On this tour you will...
Get truly off the beaten track in the Westfjords region
Explore ‘Iceland in Miniature’ on the Snæfellsnes peninsula
See the geothermal wonders of North Iceland
Admire mighty waterfalls and giant glaciers
Follow the classic Golden Circle route
Have the chance to spot puffins, Arctic foxes and whales
Top attractions
Ísafjörður
Dynjandi
Kirkjufell
Hraunfossar and Barnafoss
Látrabjarg
Borgarnes
Lake Mývatn
Goðafoss
Húsavík
Dettifoss
Vík í Mýrdal
Seljalandsfoss
Skógafoss
Gullfoss
Þingvellir National Park
Downtown Reykjavík
Why book a self-drive trip with Iceland Tours?
Start your tour on the date that suits you
24/7 emergency helpline in Iceland
Secure your booking with just a 5% deposit
New rental cars with 2 drivers as standard
Handpicked local accommodation options
Best Price Guarantee
Your 14-day self-drive itinerary
Your extraordinary 14-day journey around Iceland begins the moment you land at Keflavík Airport. After picking up your rental car and getting oriented with your vehicle, you'll drive the scenic 50-kilometer route to Reykjavík through dramatic lava fields that offer your first glimpse of Iceland's unique landscape. This initial drive is the perfect introduction to the otherworldly scenery that will surround you for the next two weeks.
Once you arrive in Iceland's charming capital, check into your accommodation and take time to explore the city at your own pace. Stroll through the colorful downtown streets, browse local boutiques selling Icelandic wool products and design items, or enjoy dinner at one of Reykjavík's excellent restaurants. The city offers a wonderful blend of small-town charm and cosmopolitan energy. Visit landmarks like the striking Hallgrímskirkja church for panoramic city views, walk along the harbor where fishing boats still come and go, or simply relax at a cozy café. Rest well tonight as your epic adventure begins in earnest tomorrow.
Highlights
Downtown Reykjavík
Extra activities
ExtraSky Lagoon Saman Pass
ExtraFlyOver Iceland
ExtraPuffin Watching
ExtraClassic Whale Watching from Reykjavík
ExtraThe Reykjavík Food Walk
ExtraHorse Riding from Reykjavík
ExtraInside the Volcano tour from Bláfjöll
Today you'll discover a region rich in cultural heritage, natural beauty, and saga history. Head north toward Borgarfjörður, where Iceland's settlement-era stories come alive. Stop at the beautiful Hraunfossar waterfalls, where water flows from beneath a lava field directly into the Hvítá river below, creating a series of delicate cascades. The interplay of water against black lava creates a mesmerizing sight.
Continue to the Snæfellsnes peninsula, often called 'Iceland in Miniature' because it contains such a diverse range of landscapes in one compact area. Visit the tiny black church at Búðir, standing alone against a backdrop of lava fields and the ocean, creating one of Iceland's most iconic and photographed scenes. Explore the coastal villages of Arnarstapi and Hellnar, where dramatic rock arches and sea stacks have been carved by centuries of Atlantic waves. Throughout the day, the mystical Snæfellsjökull glacier dominates the skyline, its ice-capped peak inspiring Jules Verne's 'Journey to the Center of the Earth.' Settle into your accommodation on the Snæfellsnes peninsula for the night.
Today marks the beginning of your Westfjords adventure, one of the most remote and pristine regions in all of Iceland. Start your morning in Stykkishólmur, a charming fishing village with colorful houses perched on a small peninsula. Board the Baldur ferry for a scenic journey across Breiðafjörður Bay, sailing past countless islands and rocky outcrops that dot the water. Keep your eyes open for seals lounging on rocks and seabirds wheeling overhead. The ferry ride itself is an experience, offering stunning views of the surrounding mountains and coastline. As you sail toward the Westfjords, you'll enter Iceland's most untouched wilderness.
After disembarking, begin your drive toward Látrabjarg, the westernmost point of Iceland and one of Europe's largest bird cliffs. This dramatic location is home to millions of seabirds during summer, including puffins, razorbills, and guillemots that nest on the towering cliff faces. The Westfjords are calling, and adventure awaits in this wild and beautiful corner of Iceland.
Continue your exploration of the magnificent Westfjords as you head north through some of Iceland's most dramatic and remote landscapes. The scenery today is absolutely breathtaking as you cross mountain passes, wind through valleys, and drive along the shores of deep fjords backed by steep cliffs. The roads here are narrow and winding, but the lack of traffic and stunning views make every moment behind the wheel special.
Your main destination today is Dynjandi, often considered the most beautiful waterfall in the Westfjords. This magnificent cascade tumbles down the mountainside in seven distinct tiers, creating a bridal veil effect that's absolutely stunning. The main falls are 100 meters high, and the thunder of water gives the falls its name, which means 'the thunderous one.' Hike up the path alongside the falls, passing several smaller cascades along the way. Continue north through the scenic Arnarfjörður fjord, where towering mountains plunge straight into the ocean. Reach your accommodation near Ísafjörður, the largest town in the Westfjords.
Today's journey takes you from the Westfjords toward North Iceland, following scenic coastal routes. Drive along roads 61 and 68, which take you through the remote western shore of Húnaflói bay. This route offers stunning views across the water and passes through sparsely populated areas where you'll experience Iceland's vast, untamed beauty. The landscape here is characterized by dramatic coastal scenery, with mountains rising from the fjords and small settlements clinging to the shoreline.
Pass through the village of Hólmavík, gateway to the remote northwest, where you can learn about Icelandic witchcraft and sorcery at the local museum if time permits. Continue along the coast toward Hrútafjörður and eventually toward the Skagafjörður region. The sense of isolation and raw natural beauty in this part of Iceland creates a profound connection with the landscape. This is one of the country's least visited routes, offering authentic experiences far from tourist crowds. Arrive at your accommodation in the north, ready for tomorrow's journey to Akureyri.
Say goodbye to the remote Westfjords as you continue your journey toward North Iceland and the vibrant town of Akureyri. The drive takes you through the horse-breeding region of Skagafjörður, where you'll see herds of beautiful Icelandic horses grazing in green fields against a backdrop of mountains and sea. These sturdy, friendly animals have been bred in Iceland for over a thousand years without any outside bloodlines, making them one of the purest horse breeds in the world.
The landscape gradually transitions from the dramatic coastal scenery of the Westfjords to the rolling agricultural lands of the north. Watch for historic turf houses along the way, and consider stopping at Glaumbær museum to see how Icelanders lived for centuries.
As you approach Akureyri, Iceland's 'Capital of the North,' you'll drive along the scenic Eyjafjörður fjord, the country's longest. Akureyri itself is a delightful town with colorful houses climbing the hillsides, excellent restaurants, botanical gardens, and a cosmopolitan atmosphere despite its northern location. Settle into your accommodation and explore this charming town at your leisure.
Spend your morning exploring Akureyri before heading east toward the geological wonderland of Lake Mývatn. Browse the town's shops, visit the beautiful botanical garden where Arctic plants thrive despite the northern latitude, or simply enjoy a coffee while taking in views of the fjord and surrounding mountains.
Begin your drive toward Mývatn, stopping en route at the magnificent Goðafoss waterfall, known as the 'Waterfall of the Gods.' According to legend, when Iceland converted to Christianity around 1000 AD, the lawspeaker threw his pagan god statues into these falls, hence the name. The horseshoe-shaped waterfall is truly impressive, with water cascading over a 12-meter drop into a turquoise pool below.
Continue to the Lake Mývatn area, one of Iceland's most renowned regions thanks to its intense volcanic activity and incredible birdlife. The lake itself sits in an active volcanic zone, surrounded by lava fields, geothermal areas, and volcanic craters. Visit the Skútustaðir pseudo-craters, unique formations created when lava flowed over wetlands, causing steam explosions. Explore the mysterious lava formations of Dimmuborgir, a dark labyrinth of twisted rock. You'll spend two nights in the Mývatn area, giving you plenty of time to explore.
Dedicate your entire day to exploring the extraordinary Lake Mývatn Nature Reserve, one of Iceland's most geologically active and visually diverse areas. The region offers an incredible concentration of natural wonders within a relatively small area.
Start at the Námaskarð geothermal area, where you can walk among hissing steam vents, bubbling mud pools, and colorful mineral deposits. The ground is painted in vivid shades of yellow, orange, and red from sulfur and other minerals. The smell of sulfur is strong, but the otherworldly scenery is absolutely worth it. Visit the Krafla volcano area to see the stunning Víti crater lake with its milky blue-green water, and walk across recent lava fields that flowed as recently as the 1980s.
Don't miss a relaxing soak in Earth Lagoon (available as an add-on for supplementary cost), a geothermal spa with stunning views over the lake. The warm, mineral-rich blue waters are the perfect place to unwind while surrounded by dramatic volcanic landscapes. The lake itself is beautiful and serene, providing wonderful contrast to the raw volcanic power surrounding it.
Begin your day in the charming fishing village of Húsavík, known as Iceland's whale-watching capital. This picturesque town sits on a beautiful bay where humpback whales, minke whales, and even blue whales are frequently spotted during summer months.
Drive along the scenic Tjörnes peninsula, where fossil-rich cliffs tell the story of Iceland's geological past. Stop at viewpoints along the coast to enjoy dramatic vistas of the North Atlantic and watch for seabirds nesting on the cliffs. You might spot puffins during summer months, along with Arctic terns, guillemots, and other species.
Continue your journey toward East Iceland, passing through increasingly remote landscapes where the sense of wilderness grows with every kilometer. The route takes you through high mountain passes and alongside rivers and lakes, with snow-capped peaks visible in the distance even in summer. This is one of Iceland's least populated regions, where you can drive for long stretches without seeing another soul. The vast, empty landscapes create a profound sense of peace and connection with nature. Arrive at your accommodation in East Iceland for the night.
Today is dedicated to exploring the beautiful and often overlooked Eastfjords, where steep mountains plunge dramatically into deep blue fjords. Start your journey toward Reyðarfjörður, home to a small but fascinating World War II museum that documents the Allied presence in these remote fjords during the war. Continue along the coastal road that winds through one spectacular fjord after another. The road follows the shoreline and lower mountainsides, offering beautiful views across the water at every turn.
Each fjord has its own character, from the narrow and dramatic to the broad and serene. Pass through tiny fishing villages where colorful houses cluster around small harbors, and locals still make their living from the ocean. The Eastfjords are home to Iceland's only wild reindeer population, descended from animals imported from Norway in the 18th century. Keep your eyes open for these magnificent creatures grazing on mountain slopes. The region's relative isolation has preserved traditional ways of life, and you'll feel like you've stepped back in time. Finally, drive through the Almannaskarð tunnel, emerging with spectacular views of Vatnajökull glacier dominating the horizon. Arrive in the Höfn region for the night.
Prepare for one of the most visually spectacular days of your entire 14-day journey through Iceland's stunning southeast. As you drive along the coast, you'll pass numerous outlet glaciers flowing down from Vatnajökull, Europe's largest ice cap covering over 8,000 square kilometers. These massive rivers of ice create a landscape unlike anywhere else on Earth.
Your main destination is the breathtaking Jökulsárlón glacier lagoon, where enormous icebergs that have calved from Breiðamerkurjökull glacier drift slowly through deep blue water. The icebergs range from white to brilliant blue, some streaked with black volcanic ash, creating an ever-changing sculpture garden of ice. Seals often swim among the icebergs, and the silence is broken only by the occasional crack and splash of ice breaking apart. Cross the road to Diamond Beach, where ice chunks wash up on black volcanic sand, glowing and sparkling like enormous diamonds.
Visit Skaftafell, a lush oasis surrounded by glaciers and black sand plains, offering excellent hiking trails through birch forests with views of glacial tongues and waterfalls. Continue through Kirkjubæjarklaustur village and across vast black sand plains, arriving in the Vík area for the night.
Start your day at the famous Reynisfjara black sand beach, one of Iceland's most iconic and dramatic coastal locations. The beach is backed by towering hexagonal basalt columns that look almost too geometric to be natural, and offshore stand the Reynisdrangar sea stacks, said to be trolls that were caught by sunrise and turned to stone. The powerful Atlantic waves crash dramatically against the shore, creating an unforgettable scene.
Visit Dyrhólaey cape, the southernmost point of mainland Iceland, where a 120-meter-high cliff offers spectacular views along the coast. During summer months, this area is home to thousands of puffins that nest on the cliff faces. Continue westbound to visit Skógafoss, one of Iceland's largest and most impressive waterfalls, where 25 cubic meters of water per second plunges 60 meters over a cliff. Climb the stairs beside the falls for incredible aerial views, or walk right up to the base to feel the power of the falling water.
Visit Seljalandsfoss waterfall, where you can actually walk behind the curtain of water for a unique perspective. The area near the falls is lush and green, creating a beautiful contrast with the surrounding landscape. Drive to the Selfoss area for the night.
Your penultimate day is dedicated to exploring the world-famous Golden Circle, a route that encompasses three of Iceland's most popular attractions. Begin at the majestic Gullfoss, the 'Golden Waterfall,' where the Hvítá river plunges in two dramatic stages into a rugged canyon. The sheer power and beauty of this waterfall is awe-inspiring, with massive volumes of water thundering into the depths below. Continue to the Geysir geothermal area, home to numerous hot springs, bubbling pools, and the famous Strokkur geyser. Watch as Strokkur erupts every 5 to 10 minutes, shooting a column of boiling water up to 20 meters into the air. The anticipation and excitement of waiting for each eruption never gets old.
Your final stop is Þingvellir National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage site of immense historical and geological significance. Walk through the Almannagjá rift valley where the North American and Eurasian tectonic plates are visibly pulling apart at a rate of about 2 centimeters per year. This is also where Iceland's ancient parliament, the Alþingi, was founded in 930 AD and met for nearly 900 years. Drive back to Reykjavík for your final night in Iceland, perhaps celebrating your incredible 14-day journey with dinner at one of the city's excellent restaurants.
Your unforgettable 14-day adventure through every corner of Iceland comes to an end today. Depending on your flight time, you may have a few hours to enjoy a final morning in Reykjavík. Take a leisurely breakfast, perhaps picking up some last-minute gifts like Icelandic chocolate, local spirits, or handmade wool products. Stroll through the city streets one more time, soaking in the unique atmosphere and colorful architecture. If time permits, visit any Reykjavík attractions you may have missed, like the fascinating National Museum or the modern Harpa concert hall on the waterfront.
For those with later flights, consider a final relaxing soak at one of Iceland's geothermal spas, ending your epic journey in warm waters surrounded by lava fields. Drive to Keflavík Airport with memories of dramatic Westfjords cliffs, volcanic landscapes, massive glaciers, countless waterfalls, and the raw beauty of Iceland's most remote regions. You've experienced Iceland like few visitors ever do, and you're already dreaming of when you'll return.
What’s included?
Detailed itinerary
Budget, Comfort, or Quality accommodation every night
Continental breakfast every day
Rental car of your choice for 13 days
2 authorized drivers as standard
Unlimited in-car Wi-Fi
Unlimited mileage
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
Food & drink, unless otherwise stated
Attraction entrance fees, unless otherwise stated
Fuel & parking charges
Personal travel insurance
Customer reviews
Read what real customers had to say about Westfjords & Iceland Ring Road Road Trip - 14 Days<
FAQs about our self-drive trips
On a self-drive trip with Iceland Tours, 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.
For all the info on how to handle these, see this guide to driving in Iceland.
One good thing to know is that some attractions in the Westfjords are only accessible via gravel roads. These are generally not a problem, but you should drive more slowly and look out for potholes.
You might find it easier to navigate the gravel roads in a larger car such as a jeep. That way you’ll be higher up off the road for a better view, and will have better suspension for a more comfortable ride.
- See what kind of rental cars are available in Iceland.
- Get the lowdown on driving with our ultimate guide to renting a car in Iceland.
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 you, letting you know your travel documents are available in our portal.
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 7.900 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
For more tips on what to bring with you, see this Iceland packing list.
No worries! Iceland Tours 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.
The Westfjords are absolutely Iceland's most remote and pristine region making them totally worth the extra time on this Iceland 14 day tour! This spectacular region offers some of Iceland's most impressive and untouched landscapes with rugged coastlines and deep fjords and authentic fishing villages. You'll experience the remarkable Látrabjarg cliffs which are 450 meters high and 14 kilometers long providing home to millions of seabirds including puffins during summer months. The mighty Dynjandi waterfall is considered the jewel of the Westfjords with eight cascades flowing down steep cliffs. While the region can get busier during summer especially when cruise ships visit it still offers that authentic "edge of the world" feeling with landscapes so wild and pristine they'll create unforgettable memories. The Westfjords give you experiences and scenery you simply can't find anywhere else in Iceland!
This Iceland 14 day tour follows a perfectly planned clockwise route! You'll start by heading to the magical Snæfellsnes Peninsula where you'll explore Kirkjufell mountain and the mystical landscapes before continuing to the Westfjords. The route takes you from Snæfellsnes to spectacular Látrabjarg cliffs then to charming Ísafjörður giving you the complete Westfjords experience. While the Westfjords include some gravel roads and more remote driving the incredible landscapes make it completely worthwhile and we recommend 4WD vehicles for maximum comfort. After exploring the wild beauty of places like Ísafjörður and Látrabjarg you'll continue your clockwise journey around the Ring Road through Akureyri and the Diamond Circle then the eastern fjords and Jökulsárlón glacier lagoon before finishing with the famous south coast attractions.
The ferry connection runs from Stykkishólmur to Brjánslækur and provides a scenic transition during your Iceland 14 day tour! This journey takes you across the stunning Breiðafjörður bay with countless small islands dotting the water and maybe you'll spot seals or seabirds along the way. The ferry timing varies by season with different departure schedules throughout the operating period. During the crossing you'll see incredible coastal scenery and might pass beautiful Flatey island. The ferry provides a relaxing break from driving while offering spectacular views of this unique Icelandic seascape before you continue your Westfjords adventure.
The Westfjords portion of your Iceland 14 day tour focuses primarily on incredible sightseeing and natural attractions! You'll experience some of Iceland's most spectacular landscapes including the dramatic Látrabjarg cliffs where millions of seabirds nest during summer and the stunning Dynjandi waterfall with its eight-tiered cascade. The region offers incredible photography opportunities with pristine fjords and authentic fishing villages like Ísafjörður. While we focus mainly on the outstanding natural sightseeing in our itinerary there are local tour operators in places like Ísafjörður that offer activities such as kayaking and hiking tours if you're interested in adding adventure elements. The Westfjords experience is primarily about connecting with Iceland's most remote and beautiful landscapes through incredible scenic drives and natural attractions.
The routing from Reykjavík to the Westfjords is perfectly planned for your Iceland 14 day tour! On day 2 you'll start in Reykjavík and drive around the magical Snæfellsnes Peninsula staying overnight on the peninsula to experience this "Iceland in miniature" region. Day 3 takes you from Snæfellsnes to the Westfjords where you'll begin exploring this incredible remote region. This pacing allows you to properly experience the Snæfellsnes Peninsula before tackling the more remote Westfjords portion of your journey. The two-day transition gives you time to adjust to Iceland's landscapes and driving conditions while building up to the most spectacular and wild regions of your tour.
Ísafjörður is the charming "capital" of the Westfjords and offers a totally different experience from anywhere else in Iceland! This picturesque town sits beautifully at the tip of Skutulsfjörður fjord surrounded by towering mountains and connected to the outside world by winding mountain roads. The colorful wooden houses and narrow streets give it an authentic Nordic fishing village atmosphere. Ísafjörður has incredible cultural heritage with museums and local restaurants serving fresh seafood caught right from the surrounding fjords. While local operators offer activities like kayaking and hiking the town atmosphere can vary significantly depending on whether cruise ships are visiting that day. The town serves as your base for exploring the wider Westfjords region and provides authentic Icelandic small-town character.
This epic Iceland 14 day tour covers approximately 3,055 km (1,900 miles) of driving through some of Iceland's most spectacular terrain! Most days involve 2-4 hours of driving between destinations giving you ample time for sightseeing and photography. The longest driving day distance-wise is day 5 from Ísafjörður to Hrútafjörður which includes navigating some of the more remote Westfjords roads but rewards you with incredible scenery. The Westfjords portion includes more winding roads and some gravel sections but the landscapes make every kilometer worthwhile. After the Westfjords you'll continue clockwise through Akureyri and the Diamond Circle then the eastern fjords and Jökulsárlón before finishing with the south coast. Your Iceland 14 day tour means you're never rushed and can take detours or spend extra time at places that capture your imagination!
Accommodations throughout this Iceland 14 day tour are carefully selected and arranged when you book to guarantee availability even in remote regions! All accommodations include breakfast to start your days of exploration properly. In the Westfjords you'll stay in charming guesthouses and small hotels that provide comfortable rooms. Comfort and Quality category accommodations feature private bathrooms while Budget category accommodations have shared facilities. Due to the remote nature of the Westfjords accommodation options are more limited than other parts of Iceland but that's part of the authentic experience. Places like Ísafjörður offer hotels with local character while smaller villages provide cozy guesthouses run by local families. As you continue your clockwise Ring Road journey you'll stay in well-located accommodations near major attractions like Akureyri and along the south coast providing comfortable bases for each day's adventures.
This Iceland 14 day tour operates during the warmer months when Iceland's main roads are most accessible, especially in the remote Westfjords region. Summer months offer extended daylight hours perfect for exploring all the spectacular landscapes and taking stunning photos during the long bright days. During the operating season you'll have access to the recommended roads in our itinerary and the best chance to see puffins at Látrabjarg cliffs plus optimal weather conditions for the more remote Westfjords driving. The extended daylight means you can explore from early morning until late evening, maximizing your sightseeing opportunities. The summer season provides the most reliable conditions for accessing the Westfjords and completing the full clockwise Ring Road experience safely and comfortably.
This Iceland 14 day tour gives you the ultimate Iceland experience by combining every major region in perfect clockwise sequence! You'll start with the magical Snæfellsnes Peninsula before spending 3 incredible days exploring the wild Westfjords including Dynjandi waterfall and Látrabjarg cliffs and authentic towns like Ísafjörður that most visitors never experience. Then you'll continue your clockwise Ring Road journey experiencing all the famous attractions starting with Akureyri and the Diamond Circle in northern Iceland followed by the eastern fjords and spectacular Jökulsárlón glacier lagoon before finishing with the south coast waterfalls and black sand beaches. This timing allows for proper exploration of the remote Westfjords plus the complete Ring Road experience giving you a comprehensive picture of Iceland's diverse landscapes and cultures. It's the perfect balance of well-known highlights and authentic wilderness adventures!
