Reykjavík: 8-Day Iceland Circle Self-Drive Tour
Location: Northeastern Region, Iceland
Price: $2,285 per person
Duration: 8 days
Supplier: Snæland Travel
A Quick Look at What You’ll Experience
Imagine cruising along the South Coast of Iceland, with its black sand beaches, powerful waterfalls, and towering glaciers. Over eight days, you’ll drive yourself around the island, with highlights such as the Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon, the steaming Geysir geothermal area, and the dramatic Lake Mývatn region. For those who love flexible travel and breathtaking scenery, this tour offers a compelling blend of natural wonder and cultural insight.
Two things we especially like: First, the freedom to explore at your own pace—no rigid group schedules here. Second, the chance to see some of Europe’s largest glaciers and iconic waterfalls like Gullfoss and Dettifoss, which are truly spectacular.
A potential consideration: This is a self-drive trip, so you’ll need to be comfortable with driving in potentially variable weather conditions and managing your own navigation. It’s best suited for travelers who enjoy independence and are confident behind the wheel.
If you’re keen on discovering Iceland at your own pace and want a comprehensive, well-organized itinerary, this tour is a strong choice. It’s especially ideal for those eager to experience the island’s diverse landscapes without the constraints of a large group or guided bus tour.
Key Points
- Flexible self-drive: You control your schedule, stopping where you want.
- Diverse landscapes: From waterfalls and glaciers to geothermal areas and volcanic craters.
- Comprehensive itinerary: From Reykjavík to the Golden Circle, Lake Mývatn, and the East Fjords.
- Comfortable accommodations: Options in guesthouses, 3-star and 4-star hotels.
- All-inclusive car rental: Unlimited mileage, insurance, and airport pickup/drop-off included.
- Authentic Icelandic scenery: Experience iconic sights and hidden gems alike.
Detailed Review of the Iceland Self-Drive Tour
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Starting Point: Reykjavík and the First Night
Most travelers begin by arriving in Reykjavik, where the tour provides a stress-free start with a pickup of your rental car directly at the airport. This convenience means you don’t have to worry about navigating public transport or taxis immediately after a long flight. The initial night in Reykjavík allows you to settle in, perhaps explore the city’s lively streets, or simply prepare for your adventure ahead.
Day 2: South Coast Marvels
Driving along the South Coast is where this tour really shines in showcasing Iceland’s stunning natural beauty. You’ll pass through Seljalandsfoss, a waterfall you can actually walk behind—an experience that feels like walking into an Icelandic fairy tale. Next is Skógafoss, another powerful waterfall famous for its consistent mist and rainbows.
We loved the way the route opens up with panoramic views of ocean and coastline, giving plenty of chances to stop for photos and soak in the landscape. The Dyrhólaey promontory offers sweeping views of the black sand beaches and sea stacks, making it impossible not to pull over and marvel. The Reynisfjara black sand beach is a highlight: the contrast of dark volcanic sands, towering basalt columns, and roaring Atlantic waves creates one of Iceland’s most iconic scenery shots. The charming village of Vík makes a great place for a lunch break and some local flavor.
Day 3: Exploring Vatnajökull National Park & Jökulsárlón
Continuing along the south coast, the journey takes you past the ice cap of Vatnajökull, Europe’s largest glacier. The Skaftafell area within the park offers opportunities for short walks amidst stunning glacier views. We appreciated that the tour includes visits to Svartifoss, a waterfall framed by basalt columns, and the mesmerizing Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon—a place where floating icebergs dazzle in the sunlight.
Just across from Jökulsárlón is Diamond Beach, where ice chunks wash ashore on black sands, creating a surreal scene. The value here is clear: You’ll get to see some of Iceland’s most famous sights in one day, with ample time to photograph and soak in the atmosphere. Overnight in Höfn, a small town renowned for its lobster, which makes a nice culinary detour.
More Great Tours NearbyDay 4: East Fjords – Quirky Villages & Coastal Views
Driving through the East Fjords is like flipping through a postcard album. The roads hug the coastline, offering vistas of rugged mountains, tranquil fishing villages, and dramatic cliffs. This is the less-traveled part of Iceland, where you’ll see fewer travelers and more authentic local life.
Staying overnight in Egilsstaðir gives you a relaxed base from which to explore the region. We loved the scenery here because it’s raw and unspoiled—ideal for travelers craving tranquility and unique landscapes.
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Day 5: The Volcanic & Geothermal Wonders of Lake Mývatn
From the East Fjords, you’ll head north into the Lake Mývatn region, known for its volcanic activity and geothermal features. Highlights include Dettifoss, the most powerful waterfall in Europe, which thunders with incredible force—definitely a bucket-list sight.
The Námaskarð geothermal area offers bubbling mud pots and steaming vents, providing a glimpse into Iceland’s volcanic heartbeat. We particularly enjoyed the Mývatn Nature Baths, which are less crowded than Blue Lagoon but equally relaxing. The craters of Hverfjall and the strange lava formations of Dimmuborgir make for fascinating exploration. Finally, Goðafoss waterfall provides a majestic finish to the day’s sightseeing.
Overnight in Akureyri, Iceland’s second-largest city, which offers a welcoming atmosphere and good local dining options.
Day 6: Cultural & Natural Heritage in Borgarfjörður
Heading west, you’ll traverse Skagafjörður, a region renowned for its horse breeding and sagas. The turf houses at Glaumbær are a charming step back in time, and Reykholt is linked to Icelandic sagas and Snorri Sturluson, making it a cultural highlight.
Next, visit Deildartunguhver, Europe’s most powerful hot spring, and the waterfalls Hraunfossar and Barnafoss, both offering dramatic scenery with lava and rushing water. This day balances natural beauty with a taste of Icelandic history and traditions.
Day 7: The Golden Circle’s Classic Sights
The Golden Circle is Iceland’s most popular tourist route, and for good reason. Starting at Þingvellir National Park, you’ll walk between the North American and Eurasian tectonic plates—seeing geology so fresh it’s still shifting.
Next is the Geysir geothermal area, where the geyser Strokkur erupts every few minutes, giving you a front-row seat to nature’s power. Just a short drive away, Gullfoss, the “Golden Waterfall,” roars into a deep canyon, a sight that never loses its wow factor.
This day encapsulates Iceland’s volcanic essence and natural grandeur, perfect for those who want iconic snapshots and a taste of Icelandic history in one go.
Day 8: Departure and Reflection
Your journey concludes back in Reykjavík, where you’ll drop off the rental car and head to the airport. The tour’s structure ensures a smooth transition from Iceland’s wild landscapes to the comforts of the city, leaving you with plenty of time to reflect on your adventures.
What Makes This Tour Stand Out?
This self-drive tour offers unmatched flexibility—you set your pace, make spontaneous stops, and truly get to experience Iceland without feeling rushed. The accommodations, ranging from guesthouses to 4-star hotels, strike a good balance between comfort and local charm, adding to the authentic feel.
The inclusion of an all-inclusive rental car with unlimited mileage and comprehensive insurance means you’re free to explore every corner without worries about extra costs. Plus, the detailed itineraries provided help you maximize your time, ensuring you don’t miss iconic sights like Jökulsárlón or Dettifoss.
Several reviews highlight the stunning views and memorable scenery—”They enjoyed their trip” is the simple but telling consensus. Travelers especially appreciate the opportunity to photograph Iceland’s powerful waterfalls, glaciers, and volcanic landscapes at leisure.
Potential Drawbacks and Considerations
This is a self-drive experience, so it’s best suited for independent travelers comfortable with driving, navigation, and managing their own schedules. Iceland’s weather can be unpredictable, especially in winter, so good driving skills and flexibility are key. Also, while the accommodations are described as standard, some travelers might prefer more upscale lodging for added comfort.
Who Is This Tour Best For?
If you value independent travel and want a rundown of Iceland’s natural highlights without a rigid schedule, this tour is perfect. It’s especially suitable for adventurous travelers eager to explore at their own pace, with the confidence to navigate Iceland’s roads and conditions.
Those who love stunning scenery—from waterfalls and glaciers to geothermal areas—will find this itinerary packed with unforgettable sights. However, travelers wanting a guided experience with less focus on driving might prefer a different type of tour.
FAQs
- Is this tour suitable for people who don’t drive?
No, since it’s a self-drive tour, you need to be comfortable with driving and holding a valid driver’s license. - Are accommodations included?
Yes, all lodging with private facilities and breakfast is included, with options in guesthouses, 3-star, and 4-star hotels. - What’s the price of this tour?
The cost is $2,285 per person, which covers vehicle rental, accommodations, and detailed itineraries. - Do I need to bring anything special?
An international driver’s license is required, and it’s wise to bring weather-appropriate clothing, especially if traveling outside summer. - Is insurance included?
Yes, the rental car includes VAT, Collision Damage Waiver, Super Collision Damage Waiver, Gravel Protection, and Theft Protection. - Are flights to Iceland included?
No, travelers need to arrange their own flights to and from Iceland. - Can I cancel this tour?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours before departure for a full refund. - What if I want to extend my stay or customize the itinerary?
Since this is a self-drive tour, you can adapt your schedule as you see fit, especially if you arrange additional nights or sightseeing.
To sum it up, this 8-day self-drive Iceland tour offers an excellent balance of flexibility, natural beauty, and cultural sights. It’s perfect for travelers who love to explore independently, enjoy stunning landscapes, and want to experience Iceland’s highlights at their own pace. With carefully selected stops, comfortable accommodations, and comprehensive car rental, it delivers a memorable Iceland adventure that’s both practical and inspiring. Whether it’s your first visit or a return trip, this tour provides a structured yet liberating way to discover some of the most iconic and beautiful parts of Iceland.
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