An Epic 10-Day Iceland Ring Road Trip Itinerary

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An Epic 10-Day Iceland Ring Road Trip Itinerary

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Iceland is likely one of the most unimaginable international locations to go to – actually, I feel it is such a cool nation that I’ve been there 4 separate instances!

On my first three journeys to Iceland, I largely primarily based myself within the capital of Reykjavik and did day journeys from there. You completely can have a terrific journey to Iceland by doing this – and it is maybe essentially the most handy (and protected) strategy to do it in case you’re visiting Iceland in winter, when many roads shut and dangerous storms could make driving extra harmful.

On my most up-to-date journey, although, I lastly did the factor that the overwhelming majority of holiday makers to Iceland dream of doing: driving the Ring Road.

And I can affirm that it is an epic, must-do street journey!

Stokksnes Peninsula
Stokksnes Peninsula
Icelandic horses with long manes
Icelandic horses
Amanda at Skogafoss waterfall
Skogafoss waterfall

How lengthy do you want for a Ring Road street journey?

The Ring Road (Þjóðvegur 1, or just Route 1) circles the whole nation in 821.5 miles (about 1322 kilometers). Many folks full this Iceland street journey in as little as every week, however my pal Kate and I truly allowed ourselves 15 days to do it (and we skipped Reykjavik and the Golden Circle since we might carried out them earlier than).

While 15 days might be longer than the typical individual wants for the foremost highlights of the Ring Road, I feel 7 days is simply too brief. In my opinion, 8-9 days can be the least period of time I’d allocate to the Ring Road, however 10-12 days can be ultimate! (And even then, you may be driving hours every day and staying someplace completely different nearly each night time!)

I’ve created this 10-day Ring Road itinerary primarily based on my 4 journeys to Iceland, together with my very own jam-packed Iceland street journey. There is SO MUCH to see and do in Iceland that you’re going to by no means see all of it; however I’ll inform you what I feel it most price seeing/doing as you circle the nation.

This itinerary does embrace a lot of driving and sightseeing, however that is what an Iceland street journey is all about!

Road on the Snaefellsnes Peninsula
Driving on the Snaefellsnes Peninsula

When to take an Iceland street journey

Technically talking, you may go to Iceland any time of yr. And whereas I do truly love touring to Iceland within the winter, I do not personally advocate street tripping Iceland within the winter.

Why? For starters, Iceland is positioned very near the Arctic Circle, that means it has very brief days throughout the winter months. While the prospect of seeing the Northern Lights is cool, solely having a couple of hours of daylight every day (5-6 hours in November, 4 hours in December, 5-6 hours in January, 9 hours in February) makes it difficult to really see all of the cool options Iceland has to supply.

Secondly, whereas not all the time frigidly chilly, Iceland is susceptible to gnarly fall and winter storms with damaging winds robust sufficient to tear automotive doorways clear off. There’s an growing threat of those storms beginning annually in October, and so they typically trigger roads – together with the Ring Road – to utterly shut for a day or two at a time.

Jeep in snow in Iceland
Winter in Iceland could be intense!

So, although the summer time months are the costliest in Iceland, they do make for significantly better street tripping.

May-September is one of the best time for a street journey in Iceland. During this half of the yr, you typically get higher climate (although a freak storm can occur any time of yr), and the lengthy sunlight hours imply heaps extra time for exploring.

I did my Iceland street journey in August, which might be the busiest time to be within the nation. If I have been to plan it once more, I might maybe go in mid-June (when lupines often begin blooming) or early September (when there is perhaps a slight probability to see the Northern Lights).

But July and August are good, too, so long as you propose and guide every part effectively prematurely.

Hofsos basalt columns
In summer time, you would possibly luck out with wildflowers AND sunshine!

Just be aware that the climate in Iceland will ALWAYS be unpredictable, even in the summertime. You would possibly luck out and get a string of sunny days like I did, or you can be confronted with clouds and rain. The forecast adjustments continuously, so your finest guess is to organize for something!

Pro tip: If you are going to do that journey within the late fall, winter, or early spring, remember to verify the Safetravel.is website (or obtain the app or comply with them on Instagram) for information on climate alerts, journey disruptions, closures, and many others. You could have to be versatile and alter your plans primarily based on storms. You also can verify Road.is for up-to-date information on street circumstances.

The excellent 10-day Iceland street journey itinerary

Here’s my model of the proper 10-day Ring Road itinerary in Iceland. I’m together with every part that I feel is a must-do, and in addition giving options of additional belongings you would possibly wish to add you probably have time/have an interest.

This itinerary contains a lot of time spent open air visiting free pure websites, so remember to pack accordingly! It additionally contains some lengthy days of driving and sightseeing, so remember to be life like about how busy you need your journey to be.


A be aware on renting a automotive in Iceland

Before we dive into my Ring Road itinerary, let’s speak concerning the automobile you may have to hire.

Driving in Iceland is mostly pretty easy. The important roads within the nation (together with the whole Ring Road) are paved and well-maintained, and are typically simply 2 lanes. The non-main roads in Iceland are generally unpaved and narrower than 2 lanes, however this itinerary does not have you ever driving on very a lot of these.

Road on the Trollaskagi Peninsula
Even in distant areas, Icelandic roads are fairly good!

What type of automotive ought to I hire in Iceland?

Many folks will inform you to hire a 4WD (or 4×4) automobile in Iceland – however actually, until you are visiting within the winter, you do not actually *want* 4WD for the Ring Road. Larger 4WD autos are essential to drive the tough roads up into the Highlands (often called F-roads), however this itinerary is just not going to incorporate any of these detours.

Renting a campervan can be a well-liked strategy to journey round Iceland, with many individuals assuming they will save some huge cash by with the ability to sleep and cook dinner contained in the van. Campervans are typically far dearer that standard automobiles to hire in Iceland, although, and it’s unlawful to camp or park in a single day exterior of designated tenting zones. Even when touring in a campervan, you may nonetheless have to pay for campsites every night time.

Toyota rental car in Iceland
We drove this Toyota throughout Iceland for two weeks

In my opinion, then, the most suitable choice for driving the Ring Road (in summer time) is to simply hire a daily small automotive. The Ring Road is all paved and simple to drive in a traditional small automotive. You’ll have many rental firm choices to select from, and will probably be the most cost effective possibility.* Just remember to reserve an computerized automotive in case you can’t drive guide.

*Cheap is relative in Iceland, although. It’s an costly nation, and renting a automotive throughout excessive season is not going to be cheap. I might examine costs utilizing a website like Discover Cars to see all of your choices.


Day 1: Arrival, Blue Lagoon, and Reykjavik

If you are flying to Iceland from North America, you are seemingly going to reach early within the morning (typically someday between 6 a.m. and eight a.m.) on the Keflavik International Airport.

You’ll need to undergo immigration, after which you may then choose up your rental automotive; most rental locations are positioned simply exterior the small airport.

Pro tip: If you wish to drink whilst you’re in Iceland, you may truly discover one of the best costs on alcohol on the Duty Free store contained in the Keflavik airport. Stocking up on a couple of bottles can prevent some cash later. (And talking of cash, Iceland is sort of totally cashless, so there isn’t any have to take cash out on the airport.)

Next, you may have two alternative ways to construction you day, relying on whether or not you wish to go to the well-known Blue Lagoon or not. I’m assuming you DO wish to, because it’s iconic and a terrific intro to Iceland’s scorching springs. But in case you’d favor the newer Sky Lagoon, I’ll let you understand how one can amend this itinerary to do this as an alternative.

After you choose up your automotive, begin your day with a couple of hours on the Blue Lagoon.

Walkway at the Blue Lagoon
Walkway on the Blue Lagoon

Iceland’s most well-known thermal spa is positioned simply 20 minutes away from the Keflavik airport, type of on the way in which to Reykjavik. Here you may benefit from the giant baby-blue geothermal swimming pools, saunas, silica mud masks, and extra. It’s a wonderful strategy to unwind after an in a single day flight.

Use of a locker is included, and most tickets will embrace issues like use of a towel and a drink from one of many swim-up bars. Note that you’re going to have to bathe (bare) earlier than getting into the Lagoon. The Blue Lagoon does have ample personal bathe stalls, however simply remember that the majority Europeans don’t have any qualms about strolling round in locker rooms bare.

RELATED: Everything You Need to Know About Visiting Iceland’s Blue Lagoon

You have to guide a timed entry to the Blue Lagoon – and tickets DO often promote out in the summertime, so guide as far prematurely as you may! (You can guide a ticket right here, or instantly by means of the Blue Lagoon.)

Wide shot of the Blue Lagoon
Summer morning on the Blue Lagoon

Most folks will wish to spend at the very least 2-3 hours on the Blue Lagoon, however when you’re in you may technically keep so long as you want!

Pro tip: Book your Blue Lagoon entry time for at the very least 2-3 hours after your flight lands to permit your self to get out of the airport, choose up your rental automotive, and drive to the Blue Lagoon.

After you are carried out, it is a 45-minute drive into downtown Reykjavik. By now, it is best to be capable to verify into your lodge, or on the very least drop your baggage off and begin exploring town.

Half a day is mostly sufficient time for most individuals to discover Reykjavik, as it is a small, walkable metropolis.

Some belongings you would possibly wish to do/see this afternoon embrace:

  • Try a well-known scorching canine from Bæjarins Beztu Pylsur (the most cost effective meal you may discover in Iceland!)
  • See the within of the Harpa Concert Hall
  • Take images on the Sun Voyager sculpture
  • Visit Hallgrímskirkja church (and the statement deck on the prime)
  • Walk down the Rainbow Street (Skólavörðustígur)
  • Enjoy espresso with a view at Café Loki, or espresso with kitties at Kattakaffihúsið
  • Stroll round Tjörnin Pond
Hallgrímskirkja church in Reykjavik
Hallgrímskirkja church
Inside Harpa Concert Hall in Reykjavik
Inside Harpa Concert Hall
Rainbow Street in Reykjavik
Rainbow Street

If it is a wet day in Reykjavik, there are additionally a number of small museums and indoor points of interest you may go to. (My picks can be FlyOver Iceland, or the Perlan Museum.)

And if you wish to mix a strolling tour with some scrumptious native bites, I extremely, extremely advocate a meals tour in Reykjavik. This meals tour lasts 3 hours, and contains sufficient tastings for a full meal. (They have a number of tour instances every day.) Book a meals tour right here.

Optional Sky Lagoon

If you are not taken with visiting the Blue Lagoon (or if maybe this is not your first journey to Iceland and you have already been there earlier than), you can shift this itinerary up by a couple of hours and finish your day at a thermal spa as an alternative of beginning at one.

The Sky Lagoon opened up near downtown Reykjavik in 2021, and is one other nice scorching spring possibility. With an infinity-edge thermal pool overlooking the Atlantic Ocean, the Sky Lagoon is very beautiful to go to round sundown (assuming you are visiting in a month when the solar does set inside opening hours!).

Sky Lagoon at sunset
Sky Lagoon at sundown

The 7-step ritual right here can be distinctive, and contains entry to a sauna with unimaginable views. Book a ticket prematurely right here.

Total driving time: 1.5 hours at most

Sample prices for as we speak: Blue Lagoon or Sky Lagoon entry – $70-$100 USD (9500-14,250 ISK), relying on which ticket you guide and what dates you are going; meals tour – $120 USD (17,125 ISK) per individual

Where to remain in Reykjavik: I like to recommend staying within the metropolis middle if potential. If you could find a lodge that provides free parking, you may park your automotive and discover on foot the remainder of the day with out having to fret about parking prices or utilizing a taxi to get into city. A couple of central choices with parking embrace: the art-filled Hotel Holt, Skuggi Hotel by Keahotels, and the Reykjavik4You Apartments.

Reykjavik views from the Perlan Museum
Reykjavik views from the Perlan Museum

A be aware on route: My Ring Road itinerary goes round Iceland clockwise just because that is how I structured my very own street journey. This means you journey to the lesser-visited elements of Iceland first, after which finish with a couple of days of extra touristy spots. You completely can reverse this itinerary if you would like, although!

Day 2: Golden Circle

We’ll begin your Iceland street journey with a bang – however truly off of the Ring Road!

The “Golden Circle” is a well-liked inland sightseeing route in Iceland that features a number of iconic stops to see geysers, waterfalls, and historic websites. I like to recommend driving the circle counter-clockwise from Reykjavik, since you may be ending your day additional north as an alternative of returning to the capital.

Today contains lots of driving, but in addition a lot of stops to assist break it up. (This might be a recurring theme on this itinerary!)

From Reykjavik, you may head to the purpose furthest to the east, which is Gullfoss Falls (a couple of 2-hour drive from Reykjavik).

On the way in which (about midway there), you would possibly wish to cease to see the Kerið (Kerid) Crater. The pink volcanic crater is stuffed with a turquoise crater lake, which is superior for images. You do need to pay a small charge to stroll across the crater (400 ISK), nevertheless it’s a terrific cease to stretch your legs and marvel at some hanging Icelandic surroundings.

Kerið Crater
Kerið Crater

Then it is on to Gullfoss, the “Golden Falls”. This is a 2-tiered waterfall on the Hvítá River. It’s simply over 100 toes tall, and you may view it from above from a pair completely different viewpoints. There’s ample (free) parking, in addition to a restaurant and store.

Gullfoss waterfall in Iceland
Gullfoss (put on rain gear to go near the falls!)

The subsequent cease is simply 10 minutes away within the Haukadalur Valley, the place you may discover a few of Iceland’s most well-known geysers. The Great Geysir is definitely the place we get the phrase “geyser” from!

Here you may comply with a brief path and see pungent scorching swimming pools and erupting geysers in an lively geothermal valley. Strokkur is essentially the most lively geyser within the space now, erupting each 5-10 minutes.

This cease is likely one of the most touristy in all of Iceland in my expertise, however seeing an erupting geyser could be very a lot price it! (There’s additionally a restaurant right here on the Geysir Center, which might be a great spot to seize lunch.)

Strokkur geyser erupting
Strokkur geyser erupting

From the Geysir space, it is lower than an hour to the third and closing Golden Circle cease: Þingvellir (Thingvellir) National Park.

This park is each the location of Iceland’s first Althing (parliament) courting again to the tenth century, in addition to the spot the place you may bodily see two of earth’s tectonic plates drifting aside. For each these causes, this place can be a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Stop on the Hrafnagjá Observation Deck, and proceed on round Thingvallavatn lake to a spot the place you may stroll between the sting of the North American and Eurasian tectonic plates within the Almannagjá Gorge. The stroll is pretty flat and contains with the ability to see a cool waterfall referred to as Oxararfoss.

Thingvellir National Park views
Thingvellir views
Walking next to a tectonic plate in Thingvellir National Park
Walking subsequent to a tectonic plate in Thingvellir

You may even go snorkeling between the tectonic plates in a rift referred to as Silfra right here – however you’d need to rush the remainder of as we speak’s sightseeing, because the final snorkeling tour begins at 2 p.m. (It is superior, although!)

From Thingvellir, you may head straight to Borgarnes (the place I like to recommend staying tonight), or make a really slight detour to a different scorching spring. Hvammsvik Hot Springs are positioned on the tranquil Hvalfjörður (Whale Fjord), and are model new as of 2022.

Hvammsvik is one among my favourite scorching springs in all of Iceland, with a number of naturally-fed scorching swimming pools constructed proper into the fjord. The spot has all of the facilities you’d anticipate finding (together with a small restaurant, a swim-up bar, a sauna, and tidy locker rooms/showers), and but feels very pure.

If you may have the time and wish to go to one other scorching spring, that is one you will not wish to miss.

Hvammsvik Hot Springs
Hvammsvik Hot Springs
Amanda at Hvammsvik Hot Springs
Amanda at Hvammsvik

You can have dinner at Hvammsvik, then drive to Borgarnes for the night time.

Total driving time: 4.25 hours

Sample prices for as we speak: Kerid Crater parking – 400 ISK ($3 USD); Hvammsvik entry – 6900-7900 ISK ($48-$56 USD)

Where to remain in Borgarnes: The top-rated lodge within the city is Hotel Hamar, and the B59 Hotel can be a great guess. For guesthouses, each the Blomasetrid Guesthouse and Helgugata have nice opinions.

A be aware on Icelandic guesthouses: You will discover guesthouses throughout Iceland; these are small, often family-run lodging. They are typically smaller and homier than resorts – and cheaper, too. There is often a shared kitchen and lounge space, and infrequently shared bogs. If you do not thoughts sharing frequent areas (my tip? take your showers at night time!), then you may often discover good offers on rooms in guesthouses.

Day 3: Snaefellsnes Peninsula

Today you may be exploring one among my very favourite elements of Iceland: the Snaefellsnes Peninsula! This small peninsula is usually referred to as “Iceland in miniature,” as a result of it has the entire pure sights Iceland is legendary for, from volcanoes to waterfalls to black sand seashores.

There are a LOT of issues to see on the Snaefellsnes Peninsula, however what number of stops you make is totally as much as you. There’s one important street that circles a lot of the peninsula (Snæfellsnesvegur, or Route 54 on maps), and a second (Útnesvegur or Route 574) that goes out to the very finish. All the foremost websites are proper alongside these two roads.

Driving on the Snaefellsnes Peninsula
Driving on the Snaefellsnes Peninsula

I like to recommend driving clockwise round Snaefellsnes from Borgarnes, as it’ll prevent having to do any backtracking.

Along the route from Borgarnes to the city of Grundarfjörður, listed here are all of the stops you can conceivably make, so as of if you’ll see them:

  • Gerðuberg Cliffs (basalt column cliffs you may climb to the highest of)
  • Ytri Tunga (golden sand seashore; you may typically spot seals right here)
  • Búðakirkja (a black church)
  • Bjarnarfoss* (very cool waterfall)
  • Rauðfeldsgjá Gorge (requires a brief hike; waterproof boots really helpful)
  • Town of Arnarstapi* (great place for lunch, and in addition there is a very nice coastal path right here with a number of cool viewpoints to see issues just like the Stone Bridge and the Gatklettur rock arch)
  • Hellnar (one other city, on the finish of the coastal path from Arnarstapi)
  • Lóndrangar (rock formation with close by strolling trails)
Gatklettur rock arch in Arnarstapi
Gatklettur rock arch in Arnarstapi
Bjarnarfoss waterfall
Bjarnarfoss
Rauðfeldsgjá Gorge
Rauðfeldsgjá Gorge
  • Vatnshellir lava cave (guided tour required)
  • Djúpalónssandur seashore* (there is a viewing space, and you may stroll all the way down to the rocky seashore, too; do not get too near the water right here, although!)
  • Saxhóll Crater* (extinct volcanic crater you may climb to the highest of)
  • Skarðsvík Beach* (one other golden sand seashore)
  • Ingjaldshólskirkja (a reasonably red-roofed church)
  • Svöðufoss* (one other beautiful waterfall)
  • Kirkjufell / Kirkjufellsfoss* (well-known mountain and set of waterfalls; the one website that prices for parking)

*The gadgets with “*” are the easiest stops (in accordance with me). But you CAN hit most of those in a single summer time day.

Kirkjufell on the Snaefellsnes Peninsula
The well-known Kirkjufell view
Djúpalónssandur beach from above
Djúpalónssandur seashore
Svöðufoss waterfall
Svöðufoss

RELATED: 19 Epic Things to Do and See on the Snaefellsnes Peninsula

Kirkjufell is true exterior of the city of Grundarfjörður, which might make a great cease for tonight. OR, you may drive just a little additional and keep in Stykkishólmur, the biggest city on the peninsula. Both cities have eating places to select from for dinner.

Total driving time: 2.75-3.25 hours, relying on the place you keep

Sample prices for as we speak: The Kirkjufellsfoss car parking zone prices you primarily based on how lengthy you keep; count on to pay maybe 750 ISK ($5.50 USD)

Where to remain on the Snaefellsnes Peninsula: In Grundarfjörður, the Grundarfjordur Bed and Breakfast and Kirkjufell Guesthouse are good, whereas in Stykkishólmur I’d advocate Hotel Egilsen or Syslo Guesthouse.

Day 4: To Akureyri

You can have a barely extra leisurely morning as we speak, and make your first cease of on the Bjarnarhöfn Shark Museum (which isn’t open year-round, so in case you’re visiting exterior of April-October, double verify earlier than you go). This little museum is positioned on a household farm the place they make Hákarl, the well-known fermented shark that’s Iceland’s nationwide dish.

Bjarnarhöfn Shark Museum
Bjarnarhöfn Shark Museum

The technique of turning the poisonous meat of the Greenland shark into one thing edible takes roughly 6 months, and you will find out about the way it’s carried out right here (and be capable to style some, after all!).

Sharks are not hunted in Iceland, so the household solely processes shark meat when the creatures are by chance caught up in fishing nets. If you go to whereas they’ve some fermented meat drying, you may see it up shut within the drying shed.

The Shark Museum is roughly midway between Grundarfjörður and Stykkishólmur. If you did not keep in Stykkishólmur final night time, I like to recommend stopping into city subsequent, because it’s actually cute! It has a pleasant harbor space, and the Stykkishólmskirkja Church is price seeing.

Stykkishólmskirkja church
Stykkishólmskirkja

Then it is time to bid farewell to the Snaefellsnes Peninsula and begin heading into Northwest Iceland. There are a number of locations you can choose to cease alongside the way in which to Akureyri as we speak, relying in your pursuits. It’s a reasonably lengthy drive (simply over 5 hours complete), so making some stops is a good suggestion!

The first cease I’d advocate is Kolugljúfur Canyon. It does require a detour (and a brief drive on an unpaved street) to achieve this little canyon, nevertheless it’s fairly fairly and often is not very crowded. You can stroll over a bridge and get near the Kolufossar waterfall.

Kolufossar waterfall at Kolugljúfur Canyon
Kolufossar waterfall at Kolugljúfur Canyon
Amanda posing at Kolugljúfur Canyon
Kolugljúfur Canyon within the different route

Past Blönduós, the Víðimýrarkirkja turf church makes for a straightforward photograph cease, and the Reykjafoss waterfall can be price a slight detour.

Reykjafoss is a surprising multi-tiered waterfall in the course of farm land. It does require a brief stroll to see, however I feel it is price it!

Pro tip: Put “Reykjafoss Car park” in your GPS, as looking only for the waterfall will not take you to the proper place on this case.

Reykjafoss waterfall on a sunny day
The very lovely Reykjafoss

If you wish to go to a “wild” scorching spring in Iceland, there’s one very near Reykjafoss merely referred to as Fosslaug. (Just carry your individual towel, and know that there aren’t any altering areas right here!)

You *might* additionally drive across the Tröllaskagi Peninsula in your strategy to Akureyri, however it’ll have already been a full day, so I’m together with that additional drive within the “if you have more time” part on the finish of this itinerary. (It’s superior, however you actually do want an additional day if you wish to add it.)

Your vacation spot for tonight is Akureyri, the biggest city in northern Iceland.

A red heart in downtown Akureyri, Iceland
Hearts are a theme in Akureyri

Total driving time: About 5.5 hours

Sample prices for as we speak: Shark Museum – 1600 ISK ($11 USD)

Where to remain in Akureyri: Hotel Kea in downtown Akureyri could be very conveniently positioned (and has free parking!), and the Skjaldarvik Guest House is an efficient possibility simply exterior of city.

Day 5: Husavik

Today you may have the choice to do a few of the finest outdoorsy issues in north Iceland! They would require you to drive one hour north to the city of Husavik, which is one among my favourite cities in all of Iceland.

Note: Driving from Akureyri to Husavik on the Ring Road requires you to drive by means of the one paid tunnel in Iceland. It prices 1650 ISK a technique, and you may pay on-line any time inside 24 hours of driving by means of it (you may pre-pay the day earlier than, or pay as much as 24 hours after). Payment web page is right here.

First up in Husavik might be a whale watching tour, if that is in your Iceland bucket record. Husavik is THE finest place to go whale watching in all of Iceland – actually, it is thought to be among the finest locations to go whale watching in all of Europe.

Whale watching in Husavik
Whale watching in Husavik

The city sits on Skjálfandi Bay, the place three completely different nutrient-rich ocean currents converge to assist quite a lot of species of whale year-round. You can spot every part from humpbacks to minke whales to even blue whales, plus porpoises and dolphins.

Several corporations supply whale watching excursions in Húsavík, both in conventional wood boats (like this one) or in RIB boats (rigid-bodied zodiacs that go quick) like this one.

I like to recommend happening an early morning tour. The climate and seas are sometimes calmer within the morning, after which afterwards you are able to do another issues in and round Husavik. (Whale watching excursions often final about 3 hours.)

Humpback whale in Husavik
Humpback whale sighting
Returning to Husavik from whale watching
Returning to Husavik from whale watching

Good to know: Tour corporations will give you heat coveralls to put on on most whale watching journeys, however remember that these excursions typically function in less-than-ideal climate so long as it is nonetheless protected to sail. Take seasickness meds prematurely in case you’re susceptible to it! Also remember that these are wild whales you are on the lookout for; sightings could also be fast and much away – that is nature!

After your whale tour (or maybe in lieu of it if whale watching is not your factor), remember to go to the Húsavík Whale Museum. This small museum packs an enormous punch, protecting not solely all of the completely different whale species you may discover in Iceland, but in addition the historical past of the nation’s relationship with the marine mammals.

The museum has an enormous assortment of whale skeletons on show, essentially the most spectacular of which being a full blue whale skeleton. It’s price spending an hour right here!

Blue whale skeleton at Husavik Whale Museum
Blue whale skeleton

You can then seize lunch on the town, after which think about a horseback using tour this afternoon. There are a lot of locations the place you may go horseback using in Iceland, however I actually suppose the surroundings in Husavik overlooking Skjálfandi Bay is a few of the finest!

I’d advocate the 2-hour “Seaside Tour” with Saltvik Farm, which is a 2-hour using tour that can take you all the way down to a black sand seashore nearby of snow-dusted mountains. It’s a wonderful trip, and Icelandic horses are tremendous cute! On this trip, you may get to check out their particular additional gait referred to as the Tölt.

Two people on Icelandic horses with mountains in the background while horseback riding in Husavik
Horseback using views
Horseback riding on a black sand beach
Saltvik horseback using tour

After this, you would possibly wish to loosen up at one more scorching spring. In Husavik, I extremely advocate the Geosea Geothermal Sea Baths. They are a set of infinity-style scorching swimming pools up on a hillside with implausible views. (Pre-book tickets right here.)

Geosea Geothermal Sea Baths in Husavik
Geosea scorching swimming pools

Afterwards, you can have drinks and dinner on the Jaja Ding Dong bar in Husavik, which is known as after a tune within the Will Ferrell Netflix film “Eurovision Song Contest: The Story of Fire Saga.

The bar serves pizza and movie-themed cocktails, and in addition has a museum-style Eurovision exhibit that covers Iceland’s historical past within the precise Eurovision Song Contest, and in addition has a room stuffed with props and costumes from the Netflix movie.

Eurovision movie costumes at Jaja Ding Dong bar in Husavik
Eurovision film costumes

RELATED: 7 Awesome Things to Do in Husavik

Total driving time: 1.5-2.5 hours, relying on the place you keep tonight

Sample prices for as we speak: Whale watching tour – $90-$160 USD (12,800-22,700 ISK); Saltvik horseback tour – 12,500 ISK ($90 USD); Eurovision museum – 1500 ISK ($10.50 USD)

Where to remain: You might keep a second night time in Akureyri because it’s solely an hour away. Staying 2 nights in a single place is sweet on a visit like this! If you do this, although, be aware that you will have to pay for one more journey by means of the Vadlaheidi tunnel. There are additionally lodge choices in Husavik, together with Fosshotel Husavik, and Guesthouse Arbol.

Pro tip: If you are staying a second night time in Akureyri, you would possibly wish to skip Geosea and go to the Forest Lagoon in Akureyri as an alternative. (Personally I favor Geosea for the views, however the Forest Lagoon is gorgeous, too.)

Day 6: Diamond Circle

You’ve already explored the Golden Circle, so as we speak it is time to discover the Diamond Circle within the north! Like the Golden Circle, the Diamond Circle has three main sights to see: two waterfalls (epic ones, too), and a geothermal space.

Start with a cease at Goðafoss, or the “waterfall of the gods,” only a brief drive from both Akureyri or Husavik. It’s stated that when Iceland transformed to Christianity, idols of the “Old Gods” (i.e. the Norse gods) have been thrown into this waterfall – therefore its identify.

Godafoss waterfall
Godafoss waterfall

Godafoss is a surprising, horseshoe-shaped waterfall 40 toes excessive and about 100 toes huge. There are two sides to view it from, and a paved path that connects them each. (Personally I just like the view from the west aspect finest, however it is best to have time to go to each.)

Your subsequent cease is within the Lake Mývatn space. Lake Mývatn is a large volcanic lake, and doubtless essentially the most touristy space in northern Iceland.

Lake Myvatn
Lake Myvatn

There are a number of issues to do/see on this space. Ones I particularly advocate embrace:

  • Skútustaðagígar (a collection of pseudocraters to see)
  • Dimmuborgir (an space of dramatic lava rocks with simple paved strolling trails)
  • Hverir AKA Námafjall Geothermal Area (an space the place you may see smoking fumaroles and boiling mud swimming pools up shut; it is pungent, although!)
Dimmuborgir lava field
Dimmuborgir lava discipline
Hverir geothermal area
Hverir geothermal space

And there are a pair others issues you can do with extra time (however that I’m undecided it is advisable):

  • Climb Hverfell Crater Mountain (there are two trails to select from)
  • Grjotagja Hot Spring Cave (a website for wanting solely! made well-known by “Game of Thrones” the place Jon Snow and Ygritte hook up; it is crowded, and actually not a lot to see)
  • Myvatn Nature Baths (a thermal pool that is blue just like the Blue Lagoon; I discovered it to be tremendous crowded and never all that pleasing in August, so wouldn’t significantly advocate a cease right here)
Grjotagja cave
Grjotagja cave is ONLY for images; you can not swim right here
Myvatn Nature Baths
Myvatn Nature Baths; we visited on a busy day and did not find it irresistible

From Lake Myvatn, it is one other brief drive (lower than an hour) to see Dettifoss, essentially the most highly effective waterfall in Iceland. The waterfall is fed by a glacial river that comes from Vatnajökull, Iceland’s largest glacier, and tumbles roughly 150 toes into Jökulsárgljúfur Canyon.

There are two sides of Dettifoss that you may go to. The west aspect has a paved street resulting in it, so it is the more-visited aspect of the falls. This aspect has a viewing platform with a straight-on view of the falls – however you’ll most likely get moist from the spray!

The east aspect is much less visited, however can solely be reached by way of a really bumpy, unpaved street that is solely open throughout the summer time months.

You most likely haven’t got sufficient time to go to either side (until you have been so as to add an additional day on this a part of Iceland), so I like to recommend visiting the west aspect. I attempted visiting the east aspect on my street journey, and it ended up being too foggy to even see the waterfall – so NOT definitely worth the 1.5 hours driving on that unpaved street!

Dettifoss waterfall in the fog
All we noticed of Dettifoss

From Dettifoss, it is one other 2 hours of driving to achieve Egilsstaðir, the place you may keep tonight.

If you are up for one more scorching spring, the Vök Baths simply exterior of Egilsstaðir are implausible. There are two swimming pools that sit proper in Lake Urriðavatn, together with steam rooms, a swim-up bar, and a small restaurant. This scorching spring was one among my favorites in Iceland; I beloved its relaxed vibe. (Book a ticket prematurely right here.)

Vok Baths
Vok Baths close to nightfall

Total driving time: 4.5 hours

Sample prices for as we speak: Other than the Vok Baths (6290-10,990 ISK, or $44-$77 USD), you solely actually need to pay for parking at Hverir, and that quantity relies on how lengthy you keep.

Where to remain in Egilsstaðir: It’s not a big city, however there are nonetheless a number of resorts and guesthouses to select from. The top-rated spots embrace Gistihusid Lake Hotel Egilsstadir, Herad Berjaya Iceland, and the Lyngas Guesthouse.

Day 7: The Eastfjords

Get an early begin this morning, as a result of there is a ton to see as you discover the Eastfjords area! (It’s most likely the a part of Iceland I discover essentially the most breathtaking after the Snaefellsnes Peninsula!)

Start out with the half-hour drive to Seyðisfjörður, an cute little fjord city. The drive itself is gorgeous, and there are two waterfalls (Fardagafoss and Gufufoss) price stopping to see alongside the way in which (although Fardagafoss does require a hike).

The road into Seyðisfjörður
Driving into Seyðisfjörður

Once in Seydisfjordur, you may discover the small city a bit, ensuring to go to the well-known rainbow avenue main in the direction of the blue church Seyðisfjarðarkirkja. Seydisfjordur is a little bit of a detour off the Ring Road, however I feel it is price it.

Amanda walking down the rainbow street in Seydisfjordur
Rainbow avenue in Seydisfjordur

You’ll need to retrace your drive to get again onto Route 1 to comply with it by means of the Eastfjords. The views are completely gorgeous, so count on to wish to pull over a couple of instances!

Driving through the Eastfjords
Driving by means of the Eastfjords

The subsequent cease I like to recommend is close to the village of Stöðvarfjörður (about 1.5 hours from Seydisfjordur). Here you may cease to go to Petra’s Stone Collection, which is strictly what it is billed as. Ljósbjörg Petra María started accumulating fascinating rocks and minerals on the age of seven, and continued all through her complete life till she handed away.

Now, her former home and backyard is a museum devoted to her assortment. Most of the stones and minerals have been present in jap Iceland, and it is a very spectacular assortment! (Note although that it is solely open June 1-September 30 annually.)

Petra's Stone Collection
Just a small a part of Petra’s Stone Collection

Then you may wind your means alongside the coast. There are two extra waterfalls which might be non-compulsory to see: Folaldafoss (which requires a really brief detour) and Nykurhylsfoss. Both are on the way in which to the city of Djúpivogur.

I like to recommend having lunch in Djúpivogur at Við Voginn (which has glorious fish and chips), and stopping to see the quirky Eggin í Gleðivík, that are sculptures of eggs representing all of the several types of birds that reside on this a part of Iceland.

Eggin í Gleðivík egg sculptures
Eggin í Gleðivík

Once you hit the street once more, scenic spots to cease at embrace the Hvalnes Lighthouse, and the Stokksnes Peninsula.

Views from Hvalnes Lighthouse
Views from Hvalnes Lighthouse

Stokksnes is understood for the towering Vestrahorn Mountain and black sand dunes, and is price an extended cease. The peninsula is on privately owned land and does require an entry charge (which you’ll be able to pay on the Viking Cafe), nevertheless it simply implies that you are not prone to discover this spot very crowded.

Once on Stokksnes, you may discover the dunes and black sand seashore (my favourite half), go to the remnants of a “Viking village” that was constructed as a film set, and probably hike out to the close by lighthouse.

Amanda at Stokksnes beach
Stokksnes is one among my new favourite spots in Iceland!

From there, it is a brief drive to the Höfn space for the night time.

Total driving time: 5 hours

Sample prices for as we speak: Petra’s Stone Collection – 1500 ISK ($11 USD); Stokksnes entry charge – 900 ISK ($6.50 USD) per individual

Where to remain in Höfn: The Milk Factory is a small lodge proper within the city of Hofn, whereas the Fosshotel Vatnajokull is positioned just a little methods north of city (however is the top-rated lodge within the space). The Aurora Cabins are additionally a great possibility.

Day 8: Hofn to Vik

Today is one other busy day! This is a day the place you would possibly wish to choose and select what you do, relying in your private preferences and the way a lot mountaineering you do/do not wish to do.

Regardless of what else you do as we speak, although, your first cease of the morning ought to be on the Jökulsárlón glacier lagoon, about an hour’s drive from Höfn. This is likely one of the hottest spots alongside the South Coast of Iceland, so go early (however count on it to be busy even at 9 a.m.)!

Jokulsarlon glacier lagoon in summer
Jokulsarlon glacier lagoon in summer time

Jokulsarlon is Iceland’s well-known glacier lagoon, the place giant chunks of ice break off the glaciers in Vatnajökull National Park and slowly make their means out to sea. Getting out into the lagoon on a ship is standard right here and pretty simple; guide a 35-minute tour in an amphibious boat, or an hour-long zodiac tour that can get you up nearer to the ice. (Book excursions prematurely right here.)

Just throughout the Ring Road from Jokulsarlon is a spot often called Diamond Beach, the place sea-polished chunks of glacier ice wash up on a black sand seashore. (It’s cool to see, however is admittedly only a photograph cease!)

Ice chunks washed up on Diamond Beach
Ice chunks washed up on Diamond Beach

Pro tip: If for no matter motive you may’t guide a ship tour at Jokulsarlon, know that there is one other (smaller) glacier lagoon close by referred to as Fjallsárlón! Boat excursions are additionally provided at Fjallsárlón, which is much less crowded and truly cheaper. Tour information right here.

After the glacier lagoon, I like to recommend one or two hikes. Which one(s) you do will rely largely on what you wish to see and the way a lot of a problem/journey you need.

My private selection can be to hike to Múlagljúfur Canyon, which is a magical canyon stuffed with mossy cliffs and skinny cascading waterfalls. It’s near Fjallsárlón, and it is best to be capable to match this hike in earlier than lunch.

Hiking up into Múlagljúfur Canyon
Hiking up into Múlagljúfur Canyon

The canyon is just not tremendous simple to entry, requiring a drive down a bumpy and pitted gravel street (you CAN do it in a daily automotive in case you take it gradual) after which a reasonably strenuous uphill hike for 45 minutes or so. But the views when you make it to the highest of the canyon? SO WORTH IT.

Amanda at Múlagljúfur Canyon
In awe at Múlagljúfur Canyon
Múlagljúfur Canyon
Múlagljúfur Canyon

An possibility for the afternoon is to do a glacier hike in Skaftafell on an arm of the Vatnajökull Glacier. This 3-hour glacier hike has a number of afternoon departures throughout the summer time months, and is a superb strategy to stand up near Iceland’s largest glacier. (Book a glacier hike right here.)

You might additionally go on a hike within the Skaftafell part of Vatnajökull National Park. The hottest hike is the one to Svartifoss waterfall, which is a waterfall surrounded by basalt columns (you’ve got most likely seen images of it).

Svartifoss waterfall
Svartifoss waterfall

This hike is far much less thrilling than the one to Múlagljúfur Canyon, although, with pretty a steeply uphill stroll for slightly below a mile on the way in which to the waterfall. I do not personally suppose Svartifoss is a must-see, but when it is in your record then it is best to go! (Just know that in case you’re happening a summer time afternoon, the viewing platform down by the waterfall will seemingly be fairly crowded!)

If you reallllly push it, you can most likely match Múlagljúfur Canyon, a glacier hike, AND the hike to Svartifoss into the afternoon of Day 8, however I would not advocate it. I might most likely select one or two of these issues and totally get pleasure from them (there might be one other probability for a glacier hike later, one other canyon, and plenty extra waterfalls on this itinerary).

Not into all of the mountaineering? There are some things between the glacier lagoons and the city of Vík í Mýrdal which might be simpler to see, together with the Eldhraun lava discipline, Fjaðrárgljúfur Canyon, and the Gígjagjá cave. (And, theoretically, you can cease at one or two of these in your strategy to Vik in case you aren’t in a rush; in any other case, you may have an opportunity to backtrack to a few of these spots on Day 9.)

Vík i Myrdal Church
Vík i Myrdal Church

Total driving time: 4 hours

Sample prices for as we speak: Glacier hike – $95 (13,550 ISK); Skaftafell parking – 1000 ISK ($7 USD)

Where to remain in Vik: Highly-rated resorts in Vik embrace Hotel Vik i Myrdal, Hotel Kria, and Hotel Katla. For guesthouses just a little bit exterior of Vik, take a look at Solheimahjaleiga Guesthouse or Grand Guesthouse Gardakot.

RELATED: 25 Epic Things You Have to Do on Iceland’s South Coast (and What You Can Skip)

Day 9: Vik space

There’s quite a bit to see inside an hour’s drive of Vik, so I like to recommend spending a second night time right here and driving out to the spots that sound one of the best to you.

If you missed them yesterday, some websites price seeing to the east of Vik (backtracking alongside the Ring Road) embrace:

  • Fjaðrárgljúfur Canyon – A really hanging canyon 320 toes deep and a mile lengthy that appears like one thing out of Lord of the Rings. It’s not far off the Ring Road, and you may stroll as little as 10-Quarter-hour for some epic views. (There’s an extended strolling path alongside the canyon edge, too, if you wish to see extra.)
  • Eldhraun lava discipline – Eldhraun is the biggest lava move of its type wherever on the earth, and was the results of a cataclysmic eruption of a volcano referred to as Laki within the 1780s. Today, the large lava discipline covers greater than 215 sq. miles and is roofed in a thick layer of spongy green-gray moss. There are a number of locations to cease and see it; I’d advocate “Gönguleið um Eldhraun,” the place you could find some established trails you may safely stroll on. (Just do not stroll on the moss!)
  • Gígjagjá (AKA Yoda Cave) – This collapse a hill referred to as Hjörleifshöfði makes for a enjoyable photograph cease. You can drive mainly proper as much as the cave, and from contained in the cave openings resemble Yoda from Star Wars (and elements of the “Rogue One” Star Wars film have been even filmed right here!).
Fjaðrárgljúfur Canyon
Fjaðrárgljúfur Canyon

Closer to Vik, the must-visit spots are:

  • Reynisfjara Beach – With its dramatic black sand, basalt columns, and spindly sea stacks, Reynisfjara Beach might be essentially the most well-known seashore in Iceland. It’s additionally some of the harmful, although, with “sneaker waves” all the time potential. If you go right here, obey any warning indicators (some days it’s possible you’ll be suggested to not go to the seashore).
  • Dyrhólaey – There are two areas you may go to on the small Dyrhólaey Peninsula: one a viewpoint on the prime of a hill, and the opposite nearer to seashore degree. The hilltop viewpoint provides views of “The Endless Black Beach” and the Dyrhólaey rock arch – however beware that it may be VERY windy!
Reynisfjara Beach
Reynisfjara Beach

To the west of Vik, some spots you can go to as we speak which might be solely about half an hour away embrace:

  • Kvernufoss – This waterfall is in some way nonetheless a little bit of a hidden gem alongside the South Coast. It’s a stunning, 100-foot-tall waterfall half tucked away in a small gorge. It requires a brief (Quarter-hour or so) hike throughout a comparatively flat discipline, and when you attain it you may have the choice to stroll down into the gorge and behind the waterfall. Definitely a should!
  • Skógar Museum – A regional people museum that truly includes three completely different small museums and 6 historic buildings, together with a reproduction turf home village. The three completely different museums embrace a people museum, a technical museum, and an open-air museum (the place you may discover the turf homes). It’s an fascinating look into the historic lifestyle on this a part of Iceland.
  • Skógafoss – Skogafoss is likely one of the bigger waterfalls in Iceland, with a peak of round 200 toes and a width of simply over 80 toes. You can get pretty near the bottom of the falls, and there is additionally a set of stairs that can take you as much as the highest of the waterfall. (I do not personally suppose strolling up the 400 steps is price it, although, until you wish to hike a part of the Waterfall Way.)
Skogafoss
Skogafoss
Behind Kvernufoss waterfall
Behind Kvernufoss waterfall

Speaking of the Waterfall Way, in case you do need a good hike as we speak, it is a nice possibility! You first need to climb to the highest of Skogafoss, after which the Waterfall Way path follows the Skógá River for 8 kilometers (about 5 miles), passing 26 completely different waterfalls alongside the way in which. It’s an out-and-back path, so you may hike as a lot or as little as you want.

Lastly, there’s one other probability to do a glacier hike as we speak on the Solheimajokull glacier. This is a very cool expertise, and I’d extremely advocate a glacier hike in case you’ve by no means carried out one earlier than. All the gear you want is offered, and you will study all about Iceland’s glaciers as you stand up shut and private with ice formations and crevasses. (This 3-hour tour is obtainable a couple of instances every day, and so they additionally supply mountain climbing and snowmobile excursions right here.)

Glacier in Iceland
Up shut with a glacier

Total driving time: 4 hours (in case you did each single factor on the record)

Sample prices for as we speak: Kvernufoss parking charge – 750 ISK ($5 USD)

Where to remain in Vik: A second night time in Vik! Highly-rated resorts in Vik embrace Hotel Vik i Myrdal, Hotel Kria, and Hotel Katla. For guesthouses just a little bit exterior of Vik, take a look at Solheimahjaleiga Guesthouse or Grand Guesthouse Gardakot.

Day 10: Back to Reykjavik/Keflavik

Today it is time to head again to the Reykjavik space or airport. The drive from Vik is lower than 3 hours, so it is best to have time for at the very least one or two extra stops (or extra, relying on whether or not you are flying residence as we speak or spending yet another night time in Iceland).

You could have seen a lot of the waterfalls near Vik already, however there are two left to see as we speak alongside the Ring Road as you head again west.

The first is Seljalandsfoss, a waterfall that cascades 200 toes over cliff right into a rounded pool surrounded by inexperienced moss. Because of the way in which the cliff face is fashioned, you may stroll all the way in which across the again of this waterfall – which you may positively wish to do!

Walking behind Seljalandsfoss
Walking behind Seljalandsfoss

Good to know: The path round Seljalandsfoss is pretty brief, nevertheless it’s moist and could be slippery in spots. Know that if you wish to stroll the loop all the way in which round behind the falls, there’s some rock scrambling concerned on the far left aspect (in case you’re going counter-clockwise).

While at Seljalandsfoss, you may discover that the path continues on previous the primary well-known waterfall. Not as many individuals make the 10-minute stroll, however those that do can go to Gljúfrabúi, or the “Canyon Dweller.”

This 130-foot-tall waterfall cascades down right into a small gorge, nearly utterly hidden from view. Those who do not thoughts getting moist can stroll/wade into the canyon and see this spectacular waterfall. (You will get VERY WET, although, so I extremely advocate totally mackintosh, pants, and boots to go to this one.)

Gljúfrabúi waterfall
The hidden “Canyon Dweller”
Amanda at Gljúfrabúi waterfall
Bring the rain gear for this one!

You can cease within the city of Selfoss for lunch, the place an previous milk manufacturing unit within the middle of city has just lately been reworked right into a meals corridor and assortment of retailers.

IF you are not flying residence as we speak, yet another distinctive factor to do is hike to the Reykjadalur Hot Spring Thermal River, which is a naturally heat river you may soak in. To get to the a part of the river that is protected for bathing, it’s important to park on the devoted Reykjadalur car parking zone and hike for about 45 minutes.

Boardwalks line the river within the part the place you may swim, however take note of indicators warning of additional scorching water – not all swimming pools are protected to leap into! Also be aware that there are no restrooms or personal altering areas one you are out on the river.

From right here, it isn’t lengthy to get to Reykjavik or Keflavik.

Total driving time: 2.75 hours to Reykjavik, or 3 hours to Keflavik

Sample prices for as we speak: Seljalandsfoss parking – 750 ISK ($5 USD)

Where to remain: If you are staying one other night time in Reykjavik, you may have a lot of choices. If it is advisable keep close to the airport for an early flight tomorrow, the Aurora Hotel is strolling distance to the airport.

Have extra time in Iceland?

Amanda at Hvitserkur
There’s all the time extra to see in Iceland!

I distilled an extended street journey down into simply 10 days, as a result of that is the typical size of journey most individuals plan in Iceland.

But you probably have 12 days in Iceland or 15 days in Iceland (or longer!), listed here are a pair methods you may lengthen this 10-day Ring Road itinerary so as to add on much more epic adventures!

1. Extra day to do Tröllaskagi

Tröllaskagi Peninsula
Tröllaskagi views

The Tröllaskagi Peninsula lies simply to the northwest of Akureyri, and is extremely lovely however not tremendous well-known amongst guests to Iceland. You might add an additional night time in Akureyri and spend a day leisurely exploring this little nook of Iceland.

A couple of issues to do as you drive round this lovely peninsula on Route 76 embrace:

  • Visit the Herring Era Museum – The fjord-side city of Siglufjörður was as soon as the herring capital of Iceland. You can find out about this era of historical past on the quirky Herring Era Museum, which is unfold all through a number of buildings. Learn about every part from herring fishing to processing to how individuals who labored within the trade lived. And Siglufjörður is price strolling round, too.
  • Swim at Hofsós Sundlaug – The small city of Hofsos is understood for its nearly-infinity-style swimming pool with unimaginable fjord views. They have a (heated) pool and scorching tub, and the entry charge is lower than $10. You also can stroll all the way down to see the Staðarbjörg basalt rock columns within the cliffs beneath the pool.
  • See Grafarkirkja – The oldest (and arguably cutest) turf church in Iceland is positioned close to Hofsos on the western aspect of the Tröllaskagi Peninsula. Parts of this little church date again to the seventeenth century, and it is price stopping to see, although you can not go contained in the church any longer. (Note that Google maps will not fairly take you to the proper place right here; it is advisable flip in at a gravel driveway with a farm gate that you’re going to have to get out to open/shut.)
Herring Era Museum in Siglufjörður
Herring Era Museum in Siglufjörður
Hofsos swimming pool
Hofsos swimming pool
Grafarkirkja turf church
Grafarkirkja turf church

Where so as to add it in: In between Days 4 and 5 of this itinerary makes essentially the most sense! Then you may keep an additional night time in Akureyri.

Total driving time: About 3.75 hours to circle the peninsula in case you begin/finish in Akureyri

Sample prices: Herring Era Museum – 2200 ISK ($15.50 USD); Hofsós Sundlaug entry – 1175 ISK ($9 USD)

2. Extra day between Akureyri and Eastfjords

If you are visiting Iceland for the mountaineering, then you definately would possibly wish to enable an additional day between Akureyri and the Eastfjords.

Stuðlagil Canyon
The spotlight of an additional day might be Stuðlagil Canyon

By including an additional day, you’d have time to go to the east aspect of Dettifoss (the aspect with the bumpy gravel street that you will have to take gradual). The street is simply open throughout the summer time months, and you will wish to get there early because the car parking zone is a bit small.

You can hike all the way down to see Dettifoss first (10-Quarter-hour down a reasonably steep and rocky path), the place you may get fairly near the highly effective falls. Then you may proceed on for one more 1 kilometer alongside one other rocky path to see the Selfoss waterfall from the east aspect. (Allow 1.5-2 hours to see each of those waterfalls, not counting driving time.)

You also can proceed driving up the unpaved street for about 5 minutes to see one other waterfall, Hafragilsfoss, and the gorgeous Jökulsárgljúfur Canyon. (This is only a brief stroll to a viewpoint.)

From there, the opposite main cease I’d advocate on the way in which to Egilsstaðir is Stuðlagil Canyon.

Amanda at Stuðlagil Canyon
Down inside Stuðlagil Canyon on a wet day

This unimaginable, Instagrammable canyon stuffed with tall basalt columns and turquoise water was truly solely “discovered” a handful of years in the past. The river that flows by means of the canyon used to run a lot greater, till a brand new hydro energy station was constructed that altered the extent of the river, revealing these gorgeous columns.

Note: The water within the canyon is NOT that turquoise colour year-round. When they let water out of the dam (often in late August/early September) and generally after very heavy rains the river can seem brownish-gray as an alternative of teal.

Visit the viewing platform on the west aspect of the canyon first (marked on Google Maps as “Stuðlagil Canyon”), after which drive to one of many parking areas on the east aspect of the canyon (the primary lot is “Stuðlagil East side parking” on Google Maps, and the second parking space is “Parkplatz Klaustrusel – Stuðlagil”). You actually most likely want a 4WD automotive to get to the second parking space.

Stuðlagil Canyon viewing platform views
West aspect viewing platform views

The hike to the column-filled a part of the canyon is 2.5-3 miles from the primary car parking zone, and the “trail” simply follows a mildly hilly gravel farm monitor. The hike itself is just not tremendous thrilling, however the canyon is unimaginable when you get there!

Just beware that you just go to Stuðlagil Canyon at your individual threat; there is a rope that can assist you climb down close to the river if you wish to, however in case you slip and fall right here you can get very injured and be fairly far-off from assist.

Stuðlagil Canyon
Be very cautious right here!

Pro tip: Visit the west aspect viewing platform first at Stuðlagil Canyon and use the restrooms right here (charge required, however they take bank cards/Apple Pay), as there are presently NO providers obtainable on the east aspect of the canyon.

Then you may proceed on to Egilsstaðir to soak within the Vok Baths after all of the mountaineering as we speak.

Where so as to add it: Between Days 6 and seven of this itinerary. Visit Godafoss, the Lake Myvatn space, and maybe the west aspect of Dettifoss on Day 6, then the east aspect of Dettifoss, Stuðlagil Canyon, plus the Vok Baths on Day 7.

Total driving time: This does not truly add lots of additional driving time; it could make your driving time on Day 6 shorter, and your driving time on Day 7 about 3.75 hours.

Sample prices: There are no additional prices right here.

Where to remain: I might keep the additional night time within the Lake Myvatn space. Hotel choices embrace Fosshotel Myvatn, Hotel Laxa, and the Icelandair Hotel Myvatn. For guesthouses, the Vogafjos Guesthouse and Dimmuborgir Guesthouse are each extremely rated.

3. Day on Westman Islands

View over Heimaey town in the Westman Islands
View over Heimaey

Lastly, this one admittedly is not ON the Ring Road, nevertheless it’s a singular addition that I extremely advocate! The Westman Islands (Vestmannaeyjar) are a small archipelago off Iceland’s south coast. The largest island, Heimaey, has a large city and plenty to do, and makes for a wonderful additional day journey or in a single day journey.

You can take a ferry from Landeyjahöfn (about 1 hour from Vik) and be on Heimaey in 40 minutes. The ferries are giant and run a number of instances per day in the summertime months – and may carry automobiles.

Once on Heimaey, the highest issues to do embrace:

  • Look for puffins – During the summer time months (May-mid August), puffins nest on the hills and cliffs on the southern finish of the island. You might simply spend hours watching them!
  • Visit the Eldheimar Museum – This museum chronicles the large volcanic eruption of Eldfell in 1973. The eruption pressured a mass in a single day evacuation of the island, and got here near destroying the entire city. Miraculously, nobody died and the city largely survived.
  • Go on a RIB safari – If you want excessive velocity and breathtaking surroundings, guide a RIB tour! These quick boats zip across the islands, float into sea caves, and get you up near some iconic rock formations like Elephant Rock.
Puffin burrows and flying puffins on Heimaey
Puffin recognizing on Heimaey
Elephant Rock in the Westman Islandes
Seeing Elephant Rock on a RIB Safari tour

Where so as to add it: I’d add it both between Day 8 and 9, or between Day 9 and 10 of the above itinerary. Since the ferry terminal is near Vik, you can both do a day journey to Heimaey and return to Vik that night time, or keep in a single day on the island. (If you keep in a single day, I’d advocate both Hotel Vestmannaeyjar or renting a cute barrel cabin at Glamping & Camping.)

Barrel cabins at Glamping & Camping

Total driving time: It relies on whether or not it is advisable drive each to/from Vik in at some point, however on the island you will not have to drive a lot since it isn’t that large!

Note: Some folks will inform you that you do not want a automotive on Heimaey, however you actually do if you wish to see every part by yourself. The island is small, however strolling from the ferry terminal to the place the puffins are, for instance, is sort of a protracted (3.5 miles a technique) and hilly stroll!


And these usually are not the one methods to increase your Ring Road street journey!

You might additionally add a day or two exploring the Westfjords, or take drives up into the Highlands (solely in the summertime months, and provided that you’ve got rented a 4×4 that’s permitted to drive on F roads). Spots like Þórsmörk and Landmannalaugar are merely gorgeous – however a visit exploring the Highlands could be very completely different from a Ring Road street journey.

What to pack for an Iceland street journey

I’ve one main packing tip for Iceland: heat, waterproof layers!

No matter what time of yr you are visiting Iceland, you are going to need a rain coat (and doubtless rain pants), waterproof boots/sneakers of some kind, and a hat. Add as many layers beneath as it is advisable keep heat. (The wind and rain are nearly all the time chilly, and the excessive temperatures hardly ever get above 55 F even in July and August.)

Amanda and Kate on a windy and wet day in Iceland
ALWAYS be ready for each wind and rain!

Some must-haves for me in Iceland embrace:

Check out my complete Iceland packing record right here.


I will not deceive you: an Iceland street journey can very simply flip right into a jam-packed trip that you’re going to want a trip from if you return residence! But, it is a completely EPIC nation, and you will not remorse squeezing in as a lot as you may!

Feel free to make use of this itinerary to encourage you personal Ring Road journey!

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