South Iceland Highlights - 5-Day Self-Drive

What's Included

Meeting and pickup

Itinerary

Day 1
Arrival
1 stop
1
Reykjavik
Upon landing in Iceland, collect your rental car at the airport. Embark on your journey from the airport, traversing the otherworldly lava fields that define the Reykjanes Peninsula. This unique, volcanic landscape, adorned with moss-covered rocks and framed by distant mountains, serves as a mesmerizing gateway to Iceland's natural marvels. Depending on your arrival time, the rest of the day is a leisure. Your first night will be spent in Reykjavík, the country's vibrant capital. Driving: Approx 50 km (31 miles) Accommodation: Reykjavík.
1 hour 30 minutes • Admission ticket free
Day 2
Explore South Iceland
6 stops
2
Seljalandsfoss
Driving along Iceland's south coast is an expedition through some of the most breathtaking scenery the island has to offer. Your journey begins with a visit to Seljalandsfoss waterfall, where the water cascades over a cliff into a serene pool below, allowing visitors to walk behind the falls for a unique perspective.
3 hours • Admission ticket free
3
Skogafoss
Continuing along the coast, Skógafoss awaits with its powerful water plummeting down from a height, creating a mist that dances in the light.
1 hour • Admission ticket free
4
Reynisfjara Beach
Further along the coast, Dyrhólaey presents a rugged promontory with panoramic views of the ocean and coastline, including the iconic arched rock that juts into the sea. Nearby, Reynisfjara beach astonishes visitors with its black sands, towering basalt columns, and the powerful waves of the North Atlantic crashing against the shore.
1 hour • Admission ticket free
5
Vik
Vík í Mýrdal is a charming village known for its black sand beaches and dramatic cliffs, it's a popular stop for tourists exploring the region. Despite its small size, Vík offers a range of amenities including cosy guesthouses, restaurants, and shops, making it a perfect base for exploring Iceland's southern wonders.
1 hour • Admission ticket free
6
Fjaðrárgljúfur
As you proceed, you'll drive through the Eldhraun lava field, the result of one of the largest volcanic eruptions in recorded history. The vast expanse of moss-covered lava creates an otherworldly landscape that's both eerie and beautiful. A detour to Fjaðrárgljúfur Canyon is highly recommended. This ancient canyon, carved by glacial meltwater, features steep walls and a winding riverbed, offering stunning views from its rim.
2 hours • Admission ticket free
7
Kirkjubaejarklaustur
Your destination, Kirkjubæjarklaustur, is a small village with a big history. Known for its natural beauty and historical sites, including the Systrafoss waterfall and Kirkjugólf, the 'Church Floor,' which is a natural pavement of basalt columns, Kirkjubæjarklaustur serves as a perfect base to explore the surrounding area.
1 hour • Admission ticket free
Day 3
Skaftafell & Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon
3 stops
8
Skaftafell
This day promises an exploration of glaciers, lagoons, and black sand beaches, encapsulating the dramatic beauty of the Icelandic landscape. Your first destination is Skaftafell in Vatnajökull National Park, a paradise for nature lovers. The drive east will unveil stunning vistas of vast lava fields, with the mighty Vatnajökull glacier looming in the distance. In Skaftafell, hike to the majestic Svartifoss, encircled by dark basalt columns that inspired the architecture of Reykjavík's Hallgrímskirkja church. The area offers numerous trails leading to glacier tongues and panoramic views.
3 hours • Admission ticket free
9
Jokulsarlon
Further east lies Jökulsárlón, a breathtaking glacier lagoon filled with floating icebergs. The contrast of the ice against the deep blue water creates a mesmerizing scene. Visit the adjacent Diamond Beach, where ice chunks from the lagoon wash onto the black sand, glistening like jewels under the sun.
2 hours • Admission ticket free
10
Vik
After Jökulsárlón its time to head back west to Vík í Mýrdal. As you make your way back, the landscapes transition from the ice and water of Jökulsárlón to the volcanic sands and cliffs of Iceland’s south coast. If you still have time, you can continue exploring the area around Vík, perhaps adding something you did not have time for the day before.
3 hours • Admission ticket free
Day 4
The Golden Circle
4 stops
11
Gullfoss
Today we head northwest towards Gullfoss, one of Iceland's most magnificent waterfalls. Gullfoss, or "Golden Falls," cascades down a deep gorge in two stages, creating a stunning visual and auditory spectacle. Numerous viewpoints allow you to experience the waterfall from different perspectives.
3 hours • Admission ticket free
12
Geysir
A short drive from Gullfoss brings you to Geysir geothermal area in Haukadalur Valley. Witness the awe-inspiring Strokkur geyser, which erupts every few minutes, shooting boiling water up to 30 meters into the air.
2 hours • Admission ticket free
13
Pingvellir National Park
From Geysir drive west towards Þingvellir National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage site celebrated for its historical, cultural, and geological significance. Þingvellir is the site of the world’s oldest recorded legislative parliament (Alþingi), established in 930 AD, and sits atop the Mid-Atlantic Ridge, where the North American and Eurasian tectonic plates are slowly drifting apart.
2 hours • Admission ticket free
14
Reykjavik
After exploring the Golden Circle, make your way back to Reykjavík. The capital city awaits with its array of cultural attractions, including museums, galleries, the iconic Hallgrímskirkja church, and the bustling Old Harbour, perfect for winding down after your journey through Iceland's natural wonders.
2 hours • Admission ticket free
Day 5
Departure
1 stop
15
Keflavik
Depart from your lodging in Reykjavík and make your way to Keflavík International Airport. Returning your rental car at Keflavík Airport marks the completion of your Icelandic adventure. Driving: Approx 50 km (31 miles)
1 hour 30 minutes • Admission ticket free

Additional info

• Specialized infant seats are available
• Suitable for all physical fitness levels
• Valid Drivers Licence is required
• Comfort Package: 4-star hotels or best hotels in each area
• Standard Package: 3-star hotels or guesthouses

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