Around Iceland in 10 Days Self-Drive Northern Lights Tour

Your memorable Icelandic adventure begins the very moment you arrive at Keflavík Airport. You will pick up your rental vehicle and drive to the capital, Reykjavík, for your first night in Iceland.

If your flight arrives early in the day, you might like to visit the world-famous Blue Lagoon spa. Take a dip into its soothing and warm waters before heading to your hotel. It is a perfect way to relax after a long flight. Be sure to pack your swimming suit!

Today you’ll drive around the stunning Snæfellsnes peninsula. You‘ll discover sites such as the Eldborg’s volcanic crater, the Gerðuberg cliffs, and the quaint hamlet of Búðir. You can also stop by Djúpalónssandur and its historical shipwreck remains. Don‘t miss the views up the famous and majestic Snæfell volcano and surrounding glacier.

From Stykkishólmur, you will head toward the fjord of Borgarfjörður. This area is characterized by vast lands, sweeping views of the Langjökull glacier, and magnificent waterfalls. All set against a rich cultural background straight out of an Icelandic saga.

Today’s itinerary takes you to North Iceland. You’ll drive through farm fields and the Skagafjörður region known for Icelandic horse breeding. In fact, you are sure to spot several beautiful and fluffy horses in the fields as you drive to Akureyri. We recommend taking some time to visit the museum at Glaumbær, one of the few turf farmhouses that has been properly preserved in Iceland.

There are more natural wonders on the program today! Your first stop is at the impressive Goðafoss waterfall, known as “the waterfall of the gods,” before heading onwards to the Mývatn area. Along the way, you can visit several awe-isnpiring sites such as Dimmuborgir, a mesmerising lava field labyrinth, and the ancient pseudo-craters of Skútustaðir.

This morning you continue your journey to East Iceland. You might like to visit the amazing boiling mud pools and steam vents of Námaskarð, before stopping by the Krafla area, where a series of volcanic eruptions took place from 1975 to 1984. You’ll then travel on to the village of Egilsstaðir. If you are lucky you might see some of the local wildlife, including reindeer and arctic fox.

Explore the East Fjords starting with Reyðarfjörður, where you’ll find a quaint and interesting World War II museum. You’ll then drive to Fáskrúðsfjörður. With its French heritage, you’ll be able to spot French street names. Later, you’ll follow the coast south to reach Höfn.

Your next stop is Iceland’s scenic south-east. You‘ll first pass by various outlet glaciers belonging to Vatnajökull, Europe’s largest ice cap. You’ll then arrive at the stunning Jökulsárlón, a lagoon famous for its bogging icebergs. This exceptional sight sits at the foot of Iceland’s highest mountain, Hvannadalshnúkur.

The Skaftafell National Park is another must-see area. This oasis, surrounded by glaciers and black sand plains, offers a broad range of options for impressive hikes. Continue through the village of Kirkjubæjarklaustur, the Eldhraun lava field, and the Mýrdalssandur plain before arriving in the Vík area.

Today, you will take in some of the top highlights of the South Coast. Start the morning by admiring the powerful Skógafoss and Seljalandsfoss waterfalls.

Later, marvel at the attractions of the famous Golden Circle. First, the imposing Gullfoss waterfall, followed by the steaming power of Geysir. Here you can witness the Strokkur geyser propel warm water 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.

You‘ll end the day in Reykjavík for your last night in Iceland.

It is now time for you to say goodbye to Iceland and fly home after an amazing journey through some of the world’s most picturesque landscapes. Drive back to Keflavík Airport and return your rental car. If your flight is later in the day, you might want to enjoy a last stroll around Reykjavík or visit one last museum or attraction in the city.