Summer Self Drive - 5 days

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Summary

Explore Iceland at your own pace on this 5-day self-drive journey through the island’s most iconic landscapes. From the geothermal wonders of the Golden Circle to the waterfalls and black-sand beaches of the South Coast, each day reveals the raw beauty of the land of fire and ice.

The journey concludes on the volcanic terrain of the Reykjanes Peninsula, where recent eruptions have shaped a dramatic and ever-changing landscape. A short but unforgettable adventure, designed for freedom, discovery, and the thrill of the open road.

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Travel expertPetraSenior Travel Expert

Map

  • Day 1: Arrival to nIceland & Reykjanes PeninsulaArrival Day

    Arrival at Keflavik airport and pick up of the vehicle.

    The Reykjanes peninsula has the largest number of active calderas in Iceland and is the most volcanically active region. These include the Grindavík volcanic caldera, erupting up to six times in 2024, and the lava fields created in the summer of 2021 by the famous Fagradalsfjall Volcano, which erupted for several months. Use this opportunity to visit the Blue Lagoon, probably Iceland's most famous attraction and a must-see for all visitors to the country. Home to one of 25 wonders of the world, Blue Lagoon Iceland is a place where the powers of geothermal seawater create transformational spa journeys.

    In an area of fissures created by the separation of the North Atlantic Ridge (which runs through Iceland) lies the large geothermal area of Krýsuvík. Within the same area is the impressive Seltún geothermal field, where volcanic vents, mud pots and hot springs have formed over millennia. The result of the geothermal activity is a landscape seemingly painted bright yellow, red and green as a result of the interaction of sulphur with the other minerals in the ground. Not far from the geothermal areas of Krýsuvík and Seltún is Kleifarvatn, the third largest lake in southern Iceland, set in a surreal volcanic environment.

    OPTIONAL ACTIVITIES Blue Lagoon

    Overnight: Reykjavik 3 star boutique accommodation

    Meals Included: None

  • Day 2: Golden Circle

    Explore Iceland’s legendary Golden Circle, starting at Þingvellir National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site where two tectonic plates meet. Continue to the iconic Geysir geothermal area, where bubbling hot springs and erupting geysers shape a constantly changing landscape. The journey concludes at Gullfoss, a breathtaking two-tiered waterfall plunging dramatically into a rugged canyon. Another important stop will be at Þingvellir, the site of Iceland's first parliament, where the separation of the North American and Eurasian tectonic plates can be observed, was declared a national park in 1930. A law was passed designating Þingvellir as ‘a protected national sanctuary for all Icelanders, the perpetual property of the Icelandic nation under the preservation of the parliament, which will never be sold or mortgaged’.

    The colonization of the island of ice and fire that is Iceland came somewhat late. A mythological place, dark and icy, it appeared in the logbooks of some brave Greeks during the time when they dominated the seas and the known world. They called it Thule. By the end of the 8th century, the Norwegian Vikings were the first to establish their habitual residence on this inhospitable piece of land emerging from the cold waters of the North Atlantic. The initial territorial organization was based on clan chiefs, and in time, a kind of system of lords of small territories was established.

    By 930, there were 48 such lords. These leaders met in the area of Þingvellir - a name that translates into English as ‘The Plains of Parliament’ - to create the Althing, a body that would have a speaker, a kind of president (or sole leader) and the power to legislate and judge with national validity.

    Thus was born in Iceland Þingvellir, the oldest parliament in the world.

    The Geysir geothermal field, the famous geyser that has given its name to all the geysers in the world and which is currently dormant, is located very close by and is also the result of the Meso-Atlantic ridge. Next to it you can see its *‘little brother’ Strokkur, that every 5-10 minutes expels a jet of boiling water that sometimes reaches a height of up to 30 meters. Gullfoss, the ‘Golden Waterfall’ is one of the most famous and beautiful waterfalls in Iceland thanks to its fabulous waterfalls that reach a height of 32 meters.

    OPTIONAL EXCURSIONS Silfra - Snorkeling between Continents Fridheimar tomato farm

    Overnight: South Area 3 star boutique accommodation

    Meals Included: Breakfast

  • Day 3: South Coast; Waterfalls & Black Sand Beach

    Drive further to Seljalandsfoss is a beautiful waterfall also the result of the melting of the Eyjafjallajökull glacier. In summer, the waterfall allows visitors to pass behind its column of water, while in winter, it splashes ice over the cliff. Located at the foot of the impressive Eyjafjöll mountain range is Skógafoss, a magnificent 60 meters high and 25-meters wide waterfall where, according to legend, the first Viking settler in the area hid a treasure in a cave hidden behind the waterfall. It is undoubtedly one of the most beautiful and representative waterfalls in all of Iceland.

    As a farewell to the ‘ice kingdom’ in which you find yourselves, visit Sólheimajökull; one of the glacier tongues from the Myrdalsjökull, which in Icelandic translates as the ´Glacier of the House of the Sun´. It is one of those places where the arctic winter light makes its magic by highlighting the colors of the ice and the mountains that surround us.

    As a next stop we recommend Dyrhólaey, an ornithological reserve characterised by its cliffs and basalt formations, where it is possible to observe the colonies of puffins that nest during the summer (from mid-June to mid-August). It is undoubtedly one of the most beautiful spots on the island, blending glaciers, cliffs, miles of black sand beaches and the power of the North Atlantic.

    Reynisfjara beach is undoubtedly the most famous beach in Iceland. Surrounded by breathtaking scenery, basalt formations are constantly being transformed by the North Atlantic swell. From here you can observe Reynisdrangar, Skessudrangar, Landdrangar and Landghamrar, the famous ‘trolls’* found in the sea, which legend says were petrified at dawn. Set against crashing waves and dramatic cliffs, they offer a breathtaking backdrop for photography and a powerful glimpse into Iceland’s geological and mythical heritage.

    OPTIONAL EXCURSIONS Glacier Hike (duration: 3 hours; 10-13:00h) - approx. 110 € p.p.*

    Overnight: South Area 3 Star boutique accommodation

    Meals Included: Breakfast

  • Day 4: Keldur Old Town & Reykjavik

    Keldur is an old farm in southern Iceland, known for its turf houses—a traditional type of architecture dating back to the Middle Ages. It is mentioned in Icelandic sagas and illustrates how people adapted to the harsh climate with semi-buried, insulated structures. Today, it is a protected historic site and a unique glimpse into Iceland’s rural past. Drive back to Reykjavik, capital of Iceland.

    Today you will take the day to explore Reykjavík, a city where history, culture, and modern life come together. Walking through its streets, you can admire the colorful houses and impressive landmarks like Hallgrímskirkja church and the striking Harpa Concert Hall. You will discover the city’s past at the National Museum, learning about Iceland’s Viking heritage, and enjoy its vibrant present through art galleries, cozy cafés, and lively music venues. Reykjavík invites us to experience its unique spirit—a blend of tradition, creativity, and warmth that makes every corner worth exploring.

    OPTIONAL EXCURSIONS IN REYKJAVIK Lava Show Sky Lagoon (Reykjavík) National Museum of Iceland Art Museum of Reykjavik Fly over Iceland Perlan Museum - Wonders of Iceland Whale watching and whale museum

    Overnight: Reykjavik 3 Star Boutique Accommodation

    Meals Included: Breakfast

  • Day 5: Departure

    Now it´s time to say goodbye to Iceland and head back to the international airport.

This itinerary can be fully customised to your preferences. Our specialists will work with you to create your perfect experience.

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Travel expertAnna
Travel expertPetra
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