Scenic South Iceland Self Drive

DAY 1 Reykjavik - Hveragerdi
Approximate distance: 100km / 62miles

Your tour commences with the collection of your rental car from the airport depot to make your way to your hotel in Hveragerdi. This village is one of the few sites in the world located directly on top of a geothermal area and, because of its many greenhouses heated by hot water from nearby springs it is often called the “flower village“. You'll travel along the mystical lava landscapes of South Coast road to the charming village of Hveragerdi, admiring the rocky beaches with massive waves along the way.

Overnight: Hveragerdi area

DAY 2 Hveragerdi - South Coast - Vik
Approximate distance: 160km / 100miles

Today, Iceland lives up to its name of fire and ice as you drive along the spectacular south coast experiencing waterfalls, volcanoes and glaciers! Your journey begins with stops at the beautiful, must see waterfalls of Seljalandsfoss and Skogafoss. Continue on the ring road where if skies are clear you will see the famous volcanoes of Mt. Hekla (last eruption: 2000) and Eyjafjallajokull (last eruption: 2010) as well as Mydralsjokull glacier in the background. Continue via the seabird cliffs of Dyrholaey or the dangerous waves at the black sand beach of Reynisfjara to Vik, the southernmost town in Iceland.

Please note that Dyrholaey is closed during nesting season in spring, from around mid-May until June 23rd.

Overnight: Vik area
Meals included: Breakfast

DAY 3 Vik - Vatnajokull National Park - Jokulsarlon - Hofn
Approximate distance: 280km / 175miles

The ring road takes you over Eldhraun, Iceland’s largest single lava flow, towards Kirkjubaejarklaustur and the southern area of Vatnajokull National Park, you will have Europe‘s largest glacier, the magnificent Vatnajokull in view. For a range of hiking abilities, you can visit the park’s amazing Skaftafell area, to experience this green oasis nestled between glaciers. Continue to the shimmering icebergs floating in Jokulsarlon Glacial Lagoon where you may even glimpse a few seals playing in the water. Nearby is the aptly named Diamond Beach, where parts of the broken icebergs come to rest on the black sand beach, creating a magical contrast between the white ice scattered across the black sands. Drive to the charming harbour town Hofn, also known as the lobster capital of northern Europe.

Overnight: Hofn area
Meals included: Breakfast

DAY 4 Hofn - South Coast - Hvolsvollur/Hella
Approximate distance: 350km / 217miles

Take a leisurely trip back through the South Shore area, stopping to catch views in a different light or perhaps visit the places or try some activities that you might have missed the past 2 days. There is plenty on offer - a zip line adventure, snowmobile tour on Mydralsjokull glacier or visit the Skogar Folk Museum to see turf houses to name a few. In Hvolsvollur learn about the powerful volcanic and tectonic forces that shaped both Iceland and Earth, with a visit to the LAVA centre.

Overnight: Hvolsvollur/Hofn area
Meals included: Breakfast

DAY 5 Hvolsvollur/Hella - Golden Circle (Thingvellir - Gullfoss - Geyser) - Reykjavik
Approximate distance: 215km / 135miles

Enjoy the day exploring the natural wonders of the Golden Circle region. Take a scenic drive to the legendary waterfall Gullfoss and the bubbling steam vents and spouting hot springs at Geysir. We recommend taking advantage of geothermal activity in this area with a relaxing soak at the Fontana Baths in Laugarvatn or the Secret Lagoon in Fludir, the oldest natural pool in Iceland. Finish with a visit to Thingvellir National Park, the site of the ancient Icelandic parliament before heading to the capital, Reykjavik.

Overnight: Reykjavik
Meals included: Breakfast

DAY 6 Reykjavik
Return the car to Keflavik International Airport today before taking your onward flight. Depending on your flight time, enjoy your day exploring Reykjavik, or visit the famous Blue Lagoon which is on the way to the airport (it is suggested to book in advance so you do not miss out).

Meals included: Breakfast