This is a guest post by Paulina.
A road trip along Iceland’s Ring Road is a true feast for the senses. From Secret Lagoon in Fludir, Gullfoss waterfall, and lava fields that surround Blue Lagoon, all of these places are perfect to explore by car.
We’ve explored every inch of Iceland from Reykjavík to Ásbyrgi Canyon, carefully curating a collection of the best experiences. With a travel plan ready starting in the Southern Peninsula, all you have to do is to jump in a car at the Keflavik airport and enjoy the unique landscape from Þingvellir National Park to Katla Geopark and more.
Here’s everything you can’t miss during two weeks of the Iceland Ring Road Itinerary:
Day 1: Charge batteries at Blue Lagoon before starting Iceland Ring Road journey
Driving from Keflavik Airport to Blue Lagoon: 20 minutes (21.6 km)
Situated not far from Keflavik Airport, the world famous geothermal spa is the perfect stop after a long flight just before starting your Ring Road journey. Check in at the Retreat Hotel with the views of milky-blue lagoon and volcanic rocks. Then, try delicious food in Lava Restaurant and get a swimsuit on to explore the lagoon’s bar, small volcanic cave and incredible colour of water.
Visiting this man-made lagoon with temperatures between 37–39°C is one of the best things to do in Iceland. The water’s high silica content is what gives it a milky blue hue. The health benefits of swimming in those pools were firstly discovered in 1981. After studies confirmation the Blue Lagoon started to operate and currently attracts milions visitors every year.
Iceland has many hot springs, however the Blue Lagoon is a must see attraction despite being pricey. If you are planning to travel on budget, you can save on booking by choosing a nearby fishing town Grindavik to stay there overnight.
READ NEXT: The cost of visiting Iceland (and how to save!)
Day 2: Þingvellir National Park, Haukadalur Valley and Secret Lagoon
Þingvellir National Park
Driving from Blue Lagoon to Þingvellir National Park: 1 hour 10 minutes (88.1 km)
A road trip in Iceland cannot be complete without the highlights of the Golden Circle. Although it is possible to drive almost 300 kilometers in a few hours, two days of exploring this famous route will give you a much better travel experience.
Start your Golden Circle journey at Þingvellir National Park that is 1 hour 10 minutes drive from Blue Lagoon. It is the only place in the world where you can see two tectonic plates (North American and Eurasian). This spectacular UNESCO World Heritage Site is also the filming location of the “Game of Thrones”. Specifically, Oxarafoss Waterfall was filmed in one of the best series of all time.
READ NEXT: The best 48-hour Golden Circle itinerary
Haukadalur Valley
Driving from Þingvellir National Park to Hotel Geysir: 50 minutes (60.6 km)
Stay in Hotel Geysir if you love contemporary interiors with incredible views. It is less than 1 hour drive from Þingvellir National Park and 20 minutes drive from Fludir, where you can unwind in Secret Lagoon – one of Iceland’s oldest swimming pools.
Secret Lagoon
Driving from Hotel Geysir to Secret Lagoon: 22 minutes (25.9 km)
Secret Lagoon is much less busy than Blue Lagoon and significantly less expensive. Just make sure to bring your own towel or alternatively you can rent one. It is also worth mentioning that you should take a shower naked before entering geothermal pools in Iceland. Some people visiting Blue Lagoon don’t stick to these rules. However, Secret Lagoon has a common shower area where geothermal pool etiquette is very clear and everyone follows it.
READ NEXT: The perfect Iceland packing list for anytime of the year
Returning to Hotel Geysir: 22 minutes (25.9km)
Day 3: Strokkur Geysir, Gullfoss Waterfall, Kerid Crater and Hveragerdi
Strokkur Geysir
Walking from Hotel Geysir to Strokkur: 5 minutes (400 m)
Hotel Geysir is in the heart of the Geysir Hot Spring area so you will not even need your car to get there. Staying in this location increases your chances of seeing the most spectacular geyser eruptions. This natural phenomenon is truly a magical experience in Iceland which you can enjoy every 6-10 minutes.
Sometimes geysir eruptions can reach up to 40 metres. Therefore, if you want to capture the whole geysir with your camera go a bit further. Most of the tourists gather in a circle around the rope. However, standing so close to the geysir might be difficult to take even a vertical photo when an eruption is the most powerful.
Gulfoss Waterfall
Driving from Hotel Geysir to Gulfoss: 10 mintes (9.6 km)
There is nothing more exciting to see than Icelandic waterfalls. Just a 10-minute drive from Strokkur Geyser lies the enormous waterfall known as Gulfoss. It has the biggest watefall volume in Europe and it is often selected as one of the best waterfalls to visit in the world.
The best time to see it is in the early morning to avoid the crowds and enjoy the sunrise over the waterfall. This impressive waterfall consists of the smaller cascade of 11 meters tall and deeper of 21 meters tall. The deep canyon that surrounds Gulfoss has a height of 70 meters, making this location so spectacular.
READ NEXT: The best time to visit Iceland
Kerid Crater
Driving from Gulfoss to Kerid Crater: 45 minutes ( 56.2 km)
The bright azure colour of the water in the crater lake and colourful rocks surrounding it make a picture perfect location. In winter, Kerid is covered in white fluff with a much smaller number of visitors.
You can follow a path all the way around the crater which is 170 metres wide. Then, you can descend to the crystal clear waters of the crater lake. There is a small entrance fee of 450 KR (3.29 USD) to visit Kerid to preserve this beautiful area.
Hveragerdi
Driving from Kerid Crater to Hveragerdi: 20 minutes (23.9 km)
After a long day of exploring, head to accommodation in Hveragerdi -“town of hot springs”. Famous for its Reykjadalur Hot Spring Thermal River and some of the best guest houses, it is the perfect place to relax after a long day of travelling.
Day 4: Seljalandsfoss, Skogafoss, Wrecked DC-3 Plane
Seljalandsfoss
Driving from Hveragerdi to Seljalandsfoss: 1 hour 6 minutes (82,6km)
Seljalandsfoss is unique in that visitors can walk behind the waterfall and experience the breathtaking view from a different perspective. It is important to note that the icy conditions during winter may restrict access to Seljalandsfoss for safety reasons.
Skogafoss
Driving from Seljalandsfoss to Skogafoss: 26 minutes (30,4 km)
This impressive 60 m tall and 25 wide waterfall is famous from multiple music videos and TV series such as “Viking” or “Game of Thrones”. The volume of the mist that the waterfall creates allows for admiring colourful rainbows by Skogaffoss. You can come really close to the waterfall due to the flat area. Moreover, there is also an observation deck above the waterfall to see it from the top.
Driving from Skogafoss to Wrecked DC-3 Plane: 11 minutes (11,2 km)
If the weather is nice, you can hike to the Wrecked DC-3 Plane on Sólheimasandur. 45-minutes trek will take you to such an unreal secluded place right on the shore of Iceland. Make sure to dress well, because such a big open space can be really windy.
READ NEXT: Magical Iceland: How It Looks to Set Foot in Narnia
Day 5: Reynisfjara Beach and Vík í Mýrdal
Reynisfjara Beach
Driving from Wrecked DC-3 Plane to Reynisfjara Beach: 25 minutes (25 km)
Every traveler to Iceland should visit Reynisfjara Beach, which features miles of black sand and basalt columns. However, it is one of the most dangerous places in Iceland, so many residents advise against visiting. If you plan to see this well-known location in Iceland, proceed with caution as the rough ocean may not always be as calm as it looks.
Vík í Mýrdal
Driving from Reynisfjara Beach to Vík í Mýrdal: 12 minutes (10.8 km)
You can stay in the small village Vík í Mýrdal where you will see puffins and enjoy dramatic scenery of the Icelandic coast. Hótel Vík is a beautiful modern accommodation that offers panoramic views from a cozy room.
Day 6: Katla Geopark, Landmannalaugar
Driving from Vík í Mýrdal to Katla Geopark: 32 minutes (47.9km), then follow F208 to Landmannalaugar
Both Katla Geopark and Landmannalaugar offer a glimpse into Iceland’s geological wonders. Landmannalaugar is a breathtaking destination that showcases the raw beauty of nature. This remote area is famous for its colorful rhyolite mountains, which create a mesmerizing landscape of vibrant hues.
Day 7: Fjaðrárgljúfur, Vatnajökull National Park, Black Waterfall – Svartifoss
Driving from Katla Geopark to Fjaðrárgljúfur: 17 minutes (20.8km)
Fjaðrárgljúfur is a canyon that is 100 m deep and about 2 km long and was likely created during the last ice age. It is a great stop before starting your adventure at Vatnajökull National Park.
Vatnajökull National Park
Driving from Fjaðrárgljúfur to Skaftafell (Vatnajökull National Park): 58 minutes (77.4 km)
Vatnajökull National Park is one of the most beautiful places to see in Southern Iceland, especially in winter. It is also one of the biggest national parks in Europe which covers an area of 12,000 km2.
This Unesco World Heritage Site offers breathtaking views and one of a kind travel experience. The glacier’s surroundings feature a wide variety of landscapes including volcanic mountain, waterfalls or glacial lagoons. Moreover, ice caves can be explored while traveling there in winter.
Make sure to book your ice cave and glacier hike tour in advance. Then, enjoy glacial lagoons and the sound of crashing ice under your feet. Hiking narrow corridors of ice in Skaftafell while looking at the sunset above your head is an unforgettable experience.
Driving from Skaftafell (Vatnajökull National Park) to Fosshótel Núpar: 37 minutes (45.7 km)
After an active day, relax in a 3-star hotel – Fosshótel Núpar, which is also one of the best spots to see the Northern Lights. Situated in the middle of nowhere with big full-height windows will allow you to connect fully with nature.
Day 8: Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon, Reyðarfjörður
Driving from Fosshótel Núpar to Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon: 1 hour 19 minutes (97,7 km)
Located in the southeastern part of the country, it is a large glacial lake formed by the melting of the Breiðamerkurjökull glacier. The lagoon is famous for its stunning blue icebergs that float peacefully on the crystal-clear water, creating a mesmerizing sight for visitors.
READ NEXT: Camping in Iceland’s Ring Road – 25 things to know
Driving from Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon to Reyðarfjörður: 3 hours 58 minutes (294km)
Reyðarfjörður is a small town located on the eastern coast of Iceland. It is nestled in a picturesque fjord surrounded by stunning mountains and breathtaking landscapes. Tærgesen – Restaurant and Guest House is the perfect spot to stay for a night due to close proximity to the charming docks where you can take leisurely strolls along the waterfront.
Day 9: Ásbyrgi Canyon
Driving from Reyðarfjörður to Asbyrgi : 2 hours 48 minutes (226km)
Ásbyrgi Canyon in Iceland is a breathtaking natural wonder that is shaped like a horseshoe. The floodwaters carved out the horseshoe shape and left behind towering cliffs that reach up to 100 meters in height.
Day 10: Húsavík, Barnafoss, Godafoss, Aldeyjarfoss
Driving from Asbyrgi to Husavik: 48 minutes (61.9km)
Driving from Husavik to Barnafoss: 42minutes (38.2km)
Driving from to Barnafoss to Godafoss: 29 minutes (21.9km)
Driving from Godafoss to Aldeyjarfoss: 46 minutes (40.6km)
Continue exploring the stunning Iceland ring road, starting from Asbyrgi and heading towards Húsavík. From there you can get to Barnafoss, Godafoss and Aldeyjarfoss to capture unforgettable photos of the most beautiful natural wonders in Iceland.
Since 1987, Barnafoss has been a designated Natural Monument. As the river has carved its way through the lava, it has created a deep and narrow ravine, adding to the allure of this enchanting waterfall.
As part of the same river of Skjalfandafljot, Godafoss is also well worth exploring. Known as the “Waterfall of the Gods” it plunges 12 meters down into a tranquil and idyllic pool below.
Finally, head to the ancient Bárðardalshraun lava field and witness the river Skjálfandafljót plunging down from a height of 20 meters. Aldeyjarfoss waterfall is surrounded by basalt formations that date back an astonishing 9000 years.
Day 11: Rock in Hvitserkur
Driving from Aldeyjarfoss to Rock in Hvitserkur: 3 hours 54 minutes (54km)
Hvitserkur is a unique rock formation located on the northern coast of Iceland. It has been shaped by the relentless waves and weather conditions over thousands of years. You can park at Hvítserkur parking lot which is just a short walk from this beautiful natural wonder of Iceland.
Day 12: Kirkjufellsfossar
Driving from Rock in Hvitserkur to Kirkjufellsfossar: 3 hours 20 minutes (217 km)
One of Iceland’s most stunning waterfalls is Kirkjufellsfossar. It is also one of the best spots to capture Northern Lights in beautiful scenery. With its captivating landscape and the possibility of witnessing the awe-inspiring Aurora, Kirkjufellsfossar is a must-visit destination for nature lovers and photography enthusiasts alike.
Day 13: Reykjavík
Harpa Concert Hall
Driving from Kirkjufellsfossar to Reykjavik: 2 hours 33 minutes (182km)
Walking from The Reykjavik EDITION to Harpa: 5 minutes (400 m)
After exploring all of the beautiful natural landmarks of Iceland, head off to Reykjavik. Visit the award winning concert hall – Harpa. With one of the most prestigious architectural awards – Mies van der Rohe makes it one of the most beautiful contemporary buildings in Iceland.
The Iceland Symphony Orchestra, Reykjavík Big Band and Icelandic Opera perform regularly there so if you fancy a cultural event, there is no better place to visit than Harpa. Visiting this concert hall can be also a short but a well worth experience. You can enter it for free to see colourful geometric glass windows inside the building.
READ NEXT: A complete guide to Iceland
Sun Voyager and Hallgrímskirkja church
Walking from Harpa to Sun Voyager and Hallgrímskirkja church: 7 minutes (600 m) then 17 minutes (1,4 km)
Next, take epic photos of Sun Voyager sculpture which is just a short walk from Harpa. Finally, visit Hallgrímskirkja church. The design of this religious building was inspired by Icelandic landscape. Hallgrímskirkja church was completed in 1986 and stands proud at a height of 74,5 meters in the heart of Reykjavik.
Day 14: Viking World and returning back to the airport
Driving from Reykjavik to Keflavik Airport: 45 minutes (53,7 km)
If you have plenty of time before your flight, stop at Viking World which is just a stone’s throw away from the airport. You will see traditional Icelandic houses with roofs covered in grass as well as the Viking Ship Museum.
While you’re out there visiting Diamond Beach or Wrecked DC-3 Plane, it’s important to bear in mind that exploring Iceland by road requires some flexibility, especially during winter. To ensure a safe trip, I highly recommend planning your adventure along Iceland’s Ring Road between mid spring and mid autumn.
I hope you find these tips helpful and if you take this trip, let me know!
About the author: Pauline is the author of ukeveryday.com. She loves exploring hidden gems in the UK and beyond. Her blog was shortlisted by FeedSpot as one of the Top 80 UK Travel Blogs to follow.
Brianna says
Wow! So many different landscapes within one little(ish) country! So glad you’ve captured them all with your camera to share with us. Definitely makes me want to make a visit of my own! Did you find the roads to be easily driven, or are road conditions something to consider when planning an Icelandic road trip?
Kristin says
Luckily for me, my friend Maksim drove and he’s used to driving in bad conditions. One day the rain and wind was so heavy I was actually terrified. I wouldn’t have been able to drive in it but he was a great captain. If you aren’t used to snow or heavy rain and wind I’d take that into consideration
Hilmar Valur Jensson says
As an Icelandic guide I wanna fill in a bid. Driving in Iceland can be weary dangeres lot of site winds, icy roads, mist and rain and cloudy and of course bliserd there are lot of dangeres korners on our roads, lot of tourist stop in middle of the road for photos and that is dangeres to so always find parking spots. If the sign says road close than it dos not mean that you can drive on it in small Yaris? Many tourists do it hehehe. Any way you have amazing photos from my country.
Sorry my spellings.
With cinde regards
Hilmar Valur Jensson tour guide
Wieke says
Hello, is it possible to visit landmannalaugar in may? Around 15/18 may? Or is the road too bad?
Kristin says
You might be able to get there with a 4×4.
mark says
Breathtaking, fabulous, surreal…
Box Canyon Mark
Nichole says
What company did you rent your camper van from? My husband and I are looking to do the same thing in September and have just started researching everything we can on Iceland.
Kristin says
Go Campers and I highly recommend them! The staff is great, the vehicle was in great condition, it had everything we needed, and the price is right. http://www.gocampers.is/
Emma says
Ah! Your photos are gorgeous! But I bet Iceland is even more beautiful in person
Kristin says
It’s pretty unbelievable
Barb says
Breathtaking! These places look absolutely beautiful, and your photos are so good I want to get to Iceland immediately!
Kristin says
Thank you so much!
Tom says
Thank you for the inspiration. Checking into adding one month in Iceland before embarking on 8 month backpacking journey in SEA. We are mid 50’s and still traveling. Never lose sight of your dreams.
Kristin says
Awesome, Tom. That sounds like an epic trip! And so varied, too.
Jimmy Dau says
I’d say the star of the show was your red jacket :). Looking forward to getting there with my #greenjacket this year hopefully.
Karolina says
Your photos look like if they were taken in the fairytale! Iceland is on top of my bucket list, I hope to visit this amazing country in 2016 🙂
Ryan says
Fjaðrárgljúfur (yes I had to copy and paste that, and I won’t even try to pronounce it…) was probably my favorite photo in this itinerary, but all of it looks amazing. And It’s just so hard to believe all of this is in one country. I’ll keep all of these in mind for when I go!
Kristin says
Yeah, I couldn’t believe how varied it was too! SO much to see all packed into one island
Sky says
3 questions:
1. My wife loves your boots. What brand are they?
2. Was your camper van 4×4?
3. We are going Oct. 5th – 16th this year. Does that line up with when you went? Hoping it’s still somewhat green.
Kristin says
1) They’re Ugg brand but I bought them years ago. I found a similar style here: http://amzn.to/1UknvhJ
2) Yes
3) Yes I went from October 1-10! Great timing but it’s not AS green as during the summer. It’s red, yellow, orange, and if you ask me, way more beautiful with the fall foliage.
Itinera Magica says
I’m going to Iceland next summer, and I came here looking for some inspiration… and inspired I was! Thanks a lot for sharing my itinerary. Some of your pictures made me feel like WOW I have to see that… Iceland is magical. I’m so looking forward to this trip.
Itinera Magica says
I meant of course “your”* itinerary! I guess I was too quick to make it mine in my head, because it looks so awesome 😉
Kristin says
Haha, if you do follow this itinerary let me know! I love it when people try out my suggestions and enjoy them!
Bjorn says
Great travel advice for future trekkers to my fair country!
I can wholeheartedly recommend the stops you mentioned. Just one thing I might add for visitors to Iceland (and sorry if you mentioned it already and I missed it):
When you feel the need to stop and snap a picture (and believe me, you´ll want to do that very frequently), make sure your car is towards the side of the road, or even off the road if possible…don´t stop at a “blind” turn….and please, please, keep in mind, that off-road driving is nowhere allowed (even on the black sands on the south coast).
Enjoy your trip to Iceland!
Kristin says
Hi Bjorn, so glad to see that a local agrees with my suggestions! In my 24 things you need to know post I mention both of those things: https://www.bemytravelmuse.com/iceland-ring-road-camping/
I remember hearing a story of some tourists who went off roading on a black sand beach then had to spend hours raking it all back into place!
Christina says
Gorgeous pictures! We are planning a trip in April – I hope we can get to some of these places! How did you find navigating around on the roads? Did you use a GPS? Are the road signs in English?
Kristin says
I got a local SIM card and it had amazingly good coverage and wasn’t expensive from Vodafone and that was the best method. The signs for each place are in Icelandic. There isn’t really an English alternative.
Carl Bradley says
We are planning a 26 day trip to Iceland in August/September 2016. This will also include a 3 day stop over in Aukeryi and an overnight stay on Grimsey. Should be a great trip – thanks for the info.
Tim says
Awesome guide, I’ll be doing the same trip this summer and you’ve gotten me even more excited, if that was possible! Great post!
Kristin says
woohoo!
Helen says
My best friend and I are going to Iceland in a couple of weeks — 2-8 May — and your blog has been incredibly helpful in planning! We really want to get to Landmannalaugar but I am reading that the F roads will not be open in early May but I see you were able to access it in October. Any guess on the chances of our being able to get there in our rented 4×4 or advice on affordable alternative ways to access it? Thank you!
Kristin says
They usually close the roads due to flooding and in May perhaps they expect a lot of snow melt. I have seen tour busses go there and we took a 4×4 rental. If you’re thinking of renting one I highly recommend gocampers.is they were great and will probably be able to answer your questions!
Michael says
Thank you so much for sharing your experiences and recommendations. We will be touring Iceland this July. I’m sure out trip will be most efficient and enhanced by your suggestions.
Eugene says
Very stylish boots
Jessica says
Thanks for sharing! If I’m reading right, you camped in your Camper Van each night? Where did you shower and how did you stay warm? Assuming the nights get cold. I am trying to plan a trip for late September/early October!
Kristin says
I slept in the camper van every night, yes. There are bath houses in every small town where you can shower and the van had a heater inside so we stayed nice and toasty. Details here: https://www.bemytravelmuse.com/iceland-ring-road-camping/
Ashley says
HI! Thanks for sharing your itinerary! Just wondering if you remember roughly how much you spent on gas? I’ve read that the gas prices are exhoborant and I’d just like an idea of how much we need. Thanks!!
Kristin says
Wasn’t much more than at home at the time but they rise and fall so what I paid might have nothing to do with what the price is now
Neha says
Hi,
How easy it to see Icelandic horses? We are thinking of going to Iceland for 3.5 days in October and originally I was thinking of doing a horseback tour but now I think I’d rather see Kirkjufellsfoss but I still want pictures of the horses.
Thanks!
Kristin says
They’re all over. You’ll see them if you take a road trip.
Gena says
Loved this article!!! I’m planning an 8-day trip in Late September with my husband. While I love the idea of a camper van for the freedom it would allow, I’m very worried about the weather (I’m a Southerner with a low tolerance for being cold!). Even if we can stay nice and toasty inside the van, there would still be the chilly trek to the bathrooms/showers as well as having to be outside to cook (at least in the camper models I’ve seen). I fear making myself miserable, but really love the idea of not having to lock in accommodations well in advance. How did you decide that a camper van was the way to go and how did you deal with the weather? Thanks and I appreciate your advice.
Kristin says
Hi Gena, we didn’t cook outside until the last night because we were cold, too. You can cook inside if you crack the windows and just boil food instead of frying it. there’s also a ventilation thingy at the top of the van. We had a space heater so we were more than fine inside. Yes, though, you’ll have to go out to use the bathroom. That part is tough when it’s cold or rainy but I will put up with those small discomforts in exchange for the freedom of the van. SO worth it!
Gena Buff says
Thanks! I can’t wait for our 1st anniversary adventure!
Sabrina BB says
Hi ! Me and my boyfriend are going to Iceland for two weeks in july/august. Your itinerary seems perfect and I was wondering if you remember how much it cost you for gaz ?
Thank you,
Kristin says
Gas is always fluctuating so I didn’t give a figure here but it wasn’t too bad for me at the time. About like home.
Jeanne Kinkade says
I just read every word you wrote about spending time in Iceland and it made me want to travel even now, and sooner to boot! Just incredible the way you highlight everything of importance. Thank you so much for taking the time to do this! What great tips you offered! I am planning to take my two boys (I’m the mom) to Iceland for a month. We just got back from a month-long UK road trip, so next year is probably when we will be going to Iceland. I loved your descriptions of the rain storms and am actually looking forward to them! I’m wondering if Spring is as awesome as Fall, though. That’s when we usually do our traveling (we home school, so it’s cool). The Northern Lights are definitely on our bucket list, so summer is out of the question. Any way, thanks for the great summary!!
Kristin says
Wow a month there will be awesome! I wish I could have stayed that long. There was so much hiking and outdoorsy stuff to do! I’m sure that any time of year there is beautiful in its own way. Have fun!
Am says
How much did you and your friend spend in gas for the total trip? I am taking the trip in late October and was wondering how much money needed to be set aside for gas. Your trip looks like it was so amazing we just might follow your itinerary!
Kristin says
The prices rise and fall and that was a year ago which is why I haven’t given a gas price. It wasn’t so bad when we were there. About $5-6 per gallon but at other times it has been closer to $8
The Gays Abroad says
Hey Kristin!
We found you through your Easter Island guest post on Nomadic Matt’s site. Great article, btw 🙂
Reading about your road trip brings back a TON of memories. Though we didn’t have a chance to visit the highlands (nor were we lucky enough to catch the Northern Lights), we did cover a lot of the same sights. We had wondered whether we took too many photos, and included too many in our posts, but judging by your article, it seems like that’s just what happens when travelling in Iceland! Fortunately, we had two weeks for the ring road so we were able to take our time.
It looks like you had some great weather, though. The bad driving conditions were the most extreme for us on our way across the Westfjords to visit the Puffins of Látrabjarg. Bumpy, cliffside roads coupled with extreme fog can be terrifying. Glad we all lived to tell our stories!
All the best,
Adamo & Joey
– The Gays Abroad
Kristin says
Glad you guys enjoyed your time there as well! I don’t think it’s possible to take too many photos! Iceland is soooo photogenic, too. I was there with my friend Maksim who did the driving. He’s from the Ukraine so he was used to all kinds of weather while I sat there in the passenger seat terrified of the storms. I wouldn’t have been able to do it without him!
Tinus says
Hey Kristin,
I really like your Blog and I got a lot of useful information from it. So thanks a lot 🙂
A friend of mine and me are going to Iceland this late September/early October. We have car, that is not a camper, but still big enough to sleep in. However, since we have a very good and stable tent, we would love to sleep in it from time to time. Do you think that this will still be possible during the first days of October, since most sites close at the first of the month. Information for further usability is very scarce and mixed. If weather will be too heavy we will book some additional accommodations for some of the days.
Another question I have is whether you think we will be able to do a circle around Iceland alongside the Ringroad, without having a 4X4? We are not planing on heading towards the Highlands away from Road1…
Would be very happy to hear some further advice from you 🙂
Kristin says
The campsites were still open for use when I was there even though there was nobody there to run it or collect a fee. Sometimes it was just me and a few other people there.
You’ll be really cold sleeping in a tent. It’ll be around freezing or below each night. If you have really good sleeping bags and gear then it might work. You can do the ring road without a 4×4 but not the highlands and not all the waterfalls. Have fun!
Christel says
I am planning one of my next road-trip to Iceland. So thank you for your help with this post. Very helpful.
Braden says
Kristin,
I’m heading to Reyk Aug. 31 – Sep 7 and I’m so so happy to have stumbled on this entry. We’ve rented a non 4×4 so I know some of this will probably be difficult or even impossible. Also, we’re planning to tent camp almost every night as there are four of us. Did you sleep in the van every night, or did you camp outdoors from time to time? As you went a month later than we’re planning, we hope that the weather will be a bit more friendly but who knows.. Did you see a lot of outdoor camping available? We are hoping to be able to hike from wherever we park the car and camp out in the earthy areas and not necessarily super established campsites. Do you think that would be possible? Also, very curious as to what kind of camera you are shooting with here. Any other tips? Thanks again for your awesome itinerary.
Kristin says
I only slept in the van and we used the van’s space heater. It was needed since we got snow. You can’t go to the highlands and just one of the waterfalls we went to without a 4×4 so you’ll still see a lot. You can camp at the same places that I parked for camping. This is my camera info: https://www.bemytravelmuse.com/how-to-improve-my-travel-photography/
Brit says
Love your blog! Your tips are so helpful. My dad and I will be visiting Iceland October 2-10, we rented a happy camper for the trip. Your post makes me feel better about the cold, I was worried we would freeze in the camper. Do you have a suggestion for planning the road trip? I love your itinerary, I’m just concerned about timing as the days will be shorter in August. Do you just map out your trip prior and try your best to estimate the timing?
Kristin says
We went at the same time of year and had the same daylight. Just aim for where you want to get to and amend the itinerary as you go, that’s what I always do everywhere I go 🙂
Shelley says
Hi Kristin,
Do you mind me asking what your rough budget was for this trip? I’m looking to do one very similar and want to get an idea of how much to save/bring etc. I haven’t had a chance to read all of your posts, so maybe you have one with this information that I missed.
Thanks!
Kristin says
Here you go! https://www.bemytravelmuse.com/what-does-it-cost-to-travel-in-iceland/
Suzi says
Hi Kristin – my husband and I have hired a 4×4 campervan to travel round Iceland in April 2017. We are however just discovering that the majority of campsites are only open 1 July – 1 September! I note that you went in October, so also “out of season”. Where did you park your van to sleep? (I have read that going off road etc is illegal). Similarly, where did you shower?! Our draft itinerary is very very similar to yours by the looks of things, so if you are able to let me know where you parked up to sleep and where you showered that would be really amazingly helpful!
Thank you!x
Kristin says
The campsites are closed but they leave the parking lots open so that people have somewhere to go. almost every town, no matter how small, has bathhouses so you can shower there 🙂
Suzi says
Thanks Kristin. Did your van have a toilet then (as I assume the toilet facilities at the campsites are also closed)?
Kristin says
The toilets were open and no the van does not.
Suzi says
Thanks Kristin – that’s super helpful!! 🙂
Nina - Where in the World is Nina? says
I’m going to end up doing some of this next year! So stoked! My friend is getting married in Iceland, so I mean… As if I needed more of an excuse to go. 🙂 Thanks for all the tips, Kristin!
Emily says
This was a great post! My boyfriend and I are travel photographers and will be traveling to Iceland in November! Only 1 month away!!!!! Crazy! It sounds absolutely stunning and other worldly! Thanks for the blog post…it gave us some great ideas!
monching says
Thanks for this info-loaded article. Am planning a road trip there for 2017. Would I lose out on a lot of the sights if I rent a bigger campervan vs the smaller 4×4 that you rented?
Thanks!!
Kristin says
The highlands and Aldeyjarfoss, which was my favorite waterfall in Iceland. You’ll still be able to see tons of amazing things, though.
Keane says
Hi Kristin!
Cheers to 2016 & Happy 2016 to you!
I’m wondering if you’re able to share your itinerary map with me?
Thank you!
P.S. Your post is awesome!
Kristin says
Hi Keane, there’s a link to each place on Google maps right before the camping suggestions under each place where it says ‘map’. Have fun!
Linda says
Hi Kristin!
My husband and I are planning to follow your trip in September. We also looked at the gocamper site, but a 4×4 camper van for 2 weeks costs over 4000€. Thats quite insane in my opinion 🙁 Due to budget restrains we are looking t rent a normal 4×4 which is about 800€ and then combine that with a tent. However you also wrote, that its quite windy, so not sure what to do. Any tips from your end?
Loved your itiniary by the way, and AMAZING fotos!!!
Kristin says
Hi Linda, a few people have been saying lately that the price is really high for the camper vans. It seems like they raised it. I’m surprised that it’s 4,000, though! However, I only rented it for about a week, so my cost was much lower. I do think that the wind could be a factor in a tent. However I camped in that kind of weather in Patagonia and survived, it just wasn’t pleasant. You could always opt to do guesthouse rooms if you see that the weather is too heavy for you.
Joy says
Driving the ring road at the end of May in five days. Do you have suggestions on an itinerary to cut it down to five days and which cities to stay in (Hotel)? We know…. not enough time, but it’s all we have.
Kristin says
You could head south then backtrack. That’s a beautiful part. I didn’t stay in any hotels but Vik is a good one with lots of options.
Siggi Einarson says
Beautiful post and beautiful photographs. I grew up in the East Fjords and you captured the beauty and contrast perfectly. I do think that 7 days on the ring road is pretty fast-I traveled the whole road in 10 days and feel like it was a bit of a whirlwind. But with Icelandair’s 7 day stopover this is perfect!
Kristin says
Glad you like the photos! 7 days is super fast and I would have loved more time!
wouter says
He Kristin, we are just back from agreat trip, thanks for all the info, … regards Wouter
Yemina says
Hi! Im going to Iceland with my boyfriend on September 21 for about 10, 15 days (havent booked the ticket back)
Our plan was to rent a campervan and do the ring road, but some Icelanders kind of scared us saying its really dangerous if we are not used to it. Is this so?
Would it make ant difference just renting a car and stay at hotels?
Should it definitely be a 4X4 car?
Also, when you talk about all the hikings you did, were they on your own or with tours?
I would prefer a self-travel more than an organized one.
Great post!!, thanks for all the info and the amazing pictures!!!
Kristin says
Why would it be dangerous? I don’t really get that. A 4×4 is necessary for some of the spots, like the highlands. I didn’t do any tours in Iceland.
Rebecca says
Hi – I read this post last year (which is just so helpful) and followed the comments but have just come back to it as I’m sending it to a friend who is due to go to Iceland later this year. Can I ask what camera you used to shot the amazing photos?
Kristin says
It’s here! http://amzn.to/2m16fTu
(affiliate link)
Katie - Round the World Magazine says
What an incredible journey! We loved Iceland and we’re off again for New Year this December. We’d love to drive the ring road but have been advised against it in winter.
What camera did you use to capture the Northern Lights? We struggled with our Nikon D3300.
Kristin says
I used a Sony A6000 for these and just upgraded to the A7S and it’s incredible how much better the latter is in low light. I’ve found that you kind of have to pay up if you want great low light cameras.
Daniel G says
I love that you did the whole road! I recognized a lot of the photos. I’m really glad someone else would describe it as nearly causing tears.. I felt the same way. There can’t possibly be a place with more chances for scenic photography than Iceland.
I was especially amazed at some of the places you don’t hear about often, like the unpaved interior roads of Snaefellsnes, and the incredible thousands of tiny waterfalls everywhere descending to the coast on the eastern side of the country near Djupivogur. For 90% of the time we were there (mid september with even days/nights hours), we felt like we were the only people around.. it was rare to see other cars or people!
Kristin says
I was surprised by how uncrowded it seemed as well!
Reuben says
HI Kristin, amazing photos and a detail blog. We are planning to take a road trip in late july for 7 nights and I am wondering how did you organize the direction from one place / attraction to other. We have decided what to see in each place but little nervous we might get lost. Is Google map reliable or will the car rental place will help us program in GPS. Please advise. If you happen to have a detail direction map please share with me.
Reuben
Kristin says
I used Vodafone the whole time for my GPS and it was great. It’s just the one major road so it’s hard to get lost.
Carly says
Me and my husband are planning a trip to iceland for our anniversary in October. Do you have a map of the campsites?
Kristin says
You can camp at all the stops I suggested and there are google maps linked for each 🙂
Azian says
Your post are exactly what I need to plan for my next trip! This is awesome and I thank you for that. Catching Aurora is one of my ultimate bucketlist! Wishing you all the best on your future adventures.
Antony says
Why did you say:” We spent the night at Hvitserkur, which I think is a no-no”. What is wrong with spending a night in the Hvitserkur?
Thank you.
Kristin says
It’s the parking lot of the rock arch that I don’t think you’re supposed to camp at.
Keri says
HI Kristin,
Loved this post. My husband and I are going in October. Was wondering where your awesome red coat was from? Thanks!!
Kristin says
It’s a Swedish brand called Saki and I wish that they sold them online! So many people have asked. I can only find them for sale within Sweden when I look at their site. I bought it at a department store in Berlin.
Matt says
Hi Kristin, the trip sounds amazing! I’m hoping to do the ringroad in the winter (January/February) next year. I’ve seen a few sites that advise against doing the ringroad in the winter (due to possibility of road closure/snow etc) and was wondering what your thoughts were on this? Did you experience any road closures or get caught out in snow storms?
Kristin says
I went in October and there was a road closure due to flooding but it wasn’t on the ring road, it was in the highlands. I am sure it’s always a possibility that roads can be closed but at least in those months you have a good chance of seeing the northern lights!
Evie says
What clothing did you bring!?
Kristin says
Here you go! https://www.bemytravelmuse.com/iceland-packing-list/
MIke says
Thank you! your article was very helpful in planning out our 12 day visit next year. Last year we toured the golden circle and we cant wait to return and travel with a 4×4 in the highlands.
Kristin says
Awesome!
Linda says
I LOVE your blogs! Just got back from 10 days on the Iceland Ring Road. Relied heavily on your blog. So informative! And FUN to read! Your pictures are gorgeous! We took a Campervan for flexibility and to get out of the weather. Your packing list is fantastic!
I am so greatful that you write these blogs. My niece is headed to Patagonia in January and I recommended your blog to her.
Thank you for all your hard work to make it easy on the rest of us!
And, most of all, thank you for your iinspiration!
Kristin says
Thanks for coming back to comment and let me know, Linda! So glad you found it helpful and had a good time!
Sharon says
Did you need to rent a sleeping bag from Go Campers since there is a space heater in the van?
Kristin says
They provided bedding if memory serves.
Mary-Kaye Pepito says
HI! We are travelling for 5 days in iceland in the next two weeks. We rented a camper van volkswagen caddy so not a 4×4. on your iterinary list, which area area are we good to visit without to worry of not having a 4×4 vehicle?
Kristin says
Just the highlands and Aldeyjarfoss. I updated the post to reflect that. Thanks for asking – others were probably also wondering!
kathero.com says
I love your blog. it’s so stuffed. I feel like I’m ready to go to Iceland. Lols!
Thank you for all the info you shared.
James says
Nice article and itinerary, similar to ours this July. My favorite part of Seljalandfoss was the falls about 300m down the trail. It is hidden in a crevice and we had to wade in a creek a short ways into the crevice. It was like water falling from the high ceiling of a cavern.
Violet Lam says
Hi there, was so impressed with your itinerary of iceland. I am planning a trip to iceland this sept/oct 19 and hope you can give me some tips.
My plan is to do the golden circle route 190km from Reykjavik to the Thingvellir National Park to Vik to Hof and than to Hofn, stay for 2 -3 nights in Hofn before driving the same route and making a detour to Blue Lagoon before Reykjavik.
Hope you can advise me on the number of days and where to stay on this route.
Many thanks
Kristin says
I’m really not sure – it depends on how often you stop and what you want to see.
Paul says
Hi Kristin,
Loving this travel blog! My girlfriend & I are planning a similar itinerary at the end of June (just after riding bikes around the Ring Road at Wow Cyclothon) and can’t wait to witness this beautiful place. Question: Do you need to plan for & reserve camping spots? From your itinerary, it seems that wasn’t necessary but I want to make sure we have everything taken care of before we arrive.
Thanks again!
Paul
Kristin says
Hi Paul, glad you’ve enjoyed the blog! I would reserve in June, since it’s high season then. Have fun!
Gemma says
This is the first Iceland itinerary I’ve read that I actually enjoyed! Loved the photos too, so beautiful!
Kristin says
yay!