10-Day Self-Driving Tour in Iceland

Iceland is a dream destination for adventure seekers and nature lovers, and one amazing way to explore its otherworldly landscapes (besides hiking, of course!) is by taking a self-driving tour of the island!
At Amarok Adventures, we specialize in crafting immersive travel experiences, and after 11 years of guiding hiking tours in Iceland, we’ve built this 10-day self-driving guide to highlight (what we think are) some of the best routes and must-visit locations around Iceland’s famous Ring Road (Route 1), the Golden Circle, to the North Coast and beyond!

Note: This itinerary is designed for summer months, as some areas—like parts of the North, East Fjords and Westfjords—may be inaccessible or closed during the winter, fall, and spring months.

This popular route blends Icelandic history, geology, and breathtaking landscapes, making it the perfect first leg of your self-drive adventure.

Þingvellir National Park: A UNESCO World Heritage Site where the North American and Eurasian tectonic plates meet, where you can literally walk between continents. Also, be sure to check out Öxarárfoss, a stunning waterfall within the park, and Þingvallavatn, Iceland’s largest natural lake. The lake’s waters come from the Langjökull glacier, and its crystal-clear water, filtered through lava rock, makes it one of the world’s top diving spots.

Strokkur & Geysir: Strokkur is one of Iceland’s most active geysers, erupts every 5 to 10 minutes, reaching whopping heights of up to 20 meters! Nearby, you’ll find Geysir, the original geyser that gave its name to all others around the world. Though it doesn’t erupt as frequently as Strokkur, Geysir still bursts every now and then.

Gullfoss Waterfall: One of Iceland’s most dramatic waterfalls, Gullfoss plunges 32 meters in a two-tiered cascading waterfall that plunges deep into a canyon.

For those looking to explore beyond the main sights, these hidden gems will add a little extra magic to your Golden Circle self-driving tour:

Driving from Reykjavik to the outskirts of Vatnajökull National Park covers approximately 200 miles (320 km) along the Ring Road. Depending on weather and road conditions, the drive can take anywhere between 4 to 7 hours, so be sure to plan accordingly.

The South Coast’s dramatic scenery is where many travelers find themselves truly captivated  by Iceland’s rugged beauty. Here’s a list of stops you’ll want to check out on your self-driving tour.

Seljalandsfoss and Gljúfrabúi Waterfalls: Seljalandsfoss is one of Iceland’s most famous waterfalls, standing 65 meters and you can walk behind the falling water for an epic view through the falls! Be warned, it can get quite busy here depending on the time of day you visit. 
For those seeking a quieter waterfall experience, Gljúfrabúi is just a short walk away tucked behind a cliff.

Skógafoss & Kvernufoss: Skógafoss is a massive waterfall (60 meters tall and 25 meters high) that creates a perpetual mist, often forming a rainbow on sunny days. The nearby Kvernufoss offers a peaceful alternative, where you can hike right up to the edge of its cascading waters.

Dyrhólaey Peninsula: Known for its dramatic sea arches, birdlife, and panoramic views of the black sand beaches. 

Reynisfjara Black Sand Beach: Famous for basalt columns and powerful waves, this beach is a paradise for photographers—just beware of unpredictable “sneaker waves!”

Vík í Mýrdal Village: A charming stop where you can grab a bite to eat, shop for Icelandic wool goods, and admire the striking church perched on a hill overlooking the village. Be sure to check out Skool Beans, a school bus cafe that serves amazing coffees and teas. 

Fjáðrárgljúfur Canyon: This canyon, carved by glaciers over thousands of years, offers dramatic landscapes with emerald green moss and winding waters. 

Skaftafell National Park: Part of the Vatnajökull National Park, Skaftafell is home to Europe’s largest glacier, Vatnajökull. Within the park, explore the Svartifoss Waterfall, surrounded by basalt columns, or hike the Sjónarnípa Trail for some epic panoramic views of the Vatnajökull glacier. 

Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon: A surreal landscape where massive icebergs drift in a serene glacial lagoon. Just a short walk away, you’ll find Diamond Beach, where ice chunks wash ashore on the black sand.

Fjallsárlón Glacier Lagoon: A quieter alternative to the more popular Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon, Fjallsárlón offers a serene escape with floating icebergs and stunning glacial views—just as breathtaking, but with fewer crowds.

Múlagljúfur Canyon: For those who love a good hike and depending on weather, this hidden canyon offers amazing views that are well worth the effort.

Ingólfshöfði Cape: A haven for birdwatchers, this cape is accessible via tractor tours and is home to puffins during the summer months.

Stokksnes Peninsula: Famous for its dramatic mountain landscapes and the Viking film set still standing at the site.

The East Fjords offer some of the most remote and stunning scenery in Iceland, with winding coastal roads, towering mountains, and charming fishing villages all along the way. This region remains one of Iceland’s least-traveled areas, making it the perfect place for those looking to escape the crowds and fully immerse themselves in untouched nature.

The drive from Vatnajökull National Park into the East Fjords follows the Ring Road for about 150 miles (240 km), taking roughly 3–5 hours depending on stops and weather conditions. The roads here are mostly paved, but some mountain passes, such as the Öxi Road, can be steep and gravel-covered.

Öxi Road & Scenic Drives: Öxi Road (Route 939) is a shortcut between the Ring Road and the East Fjords. It’s a gravel road and can be a challenging drive, so ensure it’s open and safe before traveling, especially in adverse weather.

Folaldafoss Waterfall: A quiet stop off Öxi Road with a serene waterfall surrounded by rugged cliffs.

Hengifoss Waterfall & Hallormsstaðaskógur Forest: Hengifoss, Iceland’s second-highest waterfall, is a striking sight with its red basalt rock layers. Nearby, Hallormsstaðaskógur Forest offers rare Icelandic woodland trails.

Seyðisfjörður & Klifbrekkufossar: Seyðisfjörður is a colorful fjord-side town, known for its artistic charm. While driving toward Mjóifjörður, you’ll pass the stunning Klifbrekkufossar waterfall cascading down steep cliffs.

Stórurð Hike: A scenic 4–5 hour hike through massive boulders and turquoise ponds offer some of the most surreal landscapes in East Iceland.

Stuðlagil Canyon: One of Iceland’s most photographed spots in recent years, this basalt-column canyon with a blue glacial river is a must-visit.

North Iceland is where raw nature meets folklore, offering a mix of dramatic landscapes, geothermal activity, and Icelandic cultural landmarks. The journey through this region is filled with stark contrasts—from roaring waterfalls and volcanic craters to charming fishermen towns and whale-filled fjords.

The drive from the East Fjords to North Iceland covers roughly 180 miles (290 km), taking around 4–6 hours, depending on stops and road conditions. The Ring Road remains well-maintained, but some detours, especially to waterfalls and canyons, may require extra caution.

Dettifoss Waterfall: Europe’s most powerful waterfall by volume, with a thunderous 44-meter drop, Dettifoss is a must-see for its sheer force and dramatic surroundings.

Ásbyrgi Canyon: A horseshoe-shaped canyon steeped in Icelandic mythology, believed to be created by Sleipnir, Odin’s eight-legged horse. This is the perfect stop for a nice walk in the woods.

Mývatn: A geothermal wonderland with bubbling mud pots, steaming vents, and surreal lava formations at Dimmuborgir. Hike to the top of Hverfjall, a massive volcanic crater, for breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape. Explore the geothermal caves of Grjótagjá and Stóragjá, where warm, mineral-rich waters flow through striking rock formations. 
After your adventures, relax in the soothing waters of the Mývatn Nature Baths. The area is also a renowned Nature Reserve, famous for birdwatching, especially during the summer months.

Goðafoss Waterfall & Akureyri: Goðafoss, the “Waterfall of the Gods,” is a 12-meter cascading waterfall steeped in history. Nearby, Akureyri, the vibrant “Capital of the North,” offers excellent restaurants, shops, and a botanical garden.

Húsavík & Eyjafjörður: If you’re a whale lover, Húsavík is a must-visit! Known as the whale-watching capital of Iceland, you can embark on tours to spot humpback and blue whales. 
About 1.5 hours drive away, Eyjafjörður is one of Iceland’s longest fjords where you can occasionally see whales and other marine life from shore! That being said, heading out into the open seas on a whale watching tour from Hauganes or Hjalteyri will give you the best chance to see these marine mammals up close.

The Snæfellsnes Peninsula is often called ‘Iceland in Miniature’ because it showcases the country’s diverse landscapes in one compact region. Snæfellsnes Peninsula & the Snæfellsjökull National Park have everything—volcanic peaks, black sand beaches, lava fields and of course charming fishing villages for the perfect mix of adventure and history. 

A full day is usually enough to see the highlights of the region, but spending two days will allow for a deeper exploration of its remote corners. The drive from Húsavík to Snæfellsnes is approximately 250 miles (400 km) and takes around 5–6 hours, depending on road conditions and stops.

Snæfellsjökull Glacier: Dominating the western tip of the peninsula, this massive glacier-capped volcano stands approximately 1,446 meters tall, which you can see from Reykjavik on a clear day. 

Stykkishólmur: A picturesque town on the northeastern coast of the peninsula, Stykkishólmur offers beautiful harbor views, charming streets, and access to boat tours to the nearby islands of Breiðafjörður.

Kirkjufell Mountain: One of Iceland’s most photographed landmarks, this unique cone-shaped peak is best viewed alongside the small waterfalls nearby.

Ólafsvík & Grundarfjörður: These charming fishing towns are known for their picturesque seaside views, colorful houses, and a peaceful atmosphere that captures the essence of Icelandic coastal life.

Skarðsvík Golden Sand Beach: A golden sand beach that contrasts beautifully with the rugged landscapes of the peninsula.

Djúpalónssandur Black Sand Beach: A rugged, black sand beach with dramatic rock formations. Here, you’ll find the Djúpalón lagoon, the shipwrecked remains of a Epine GY7 fishing trawler, and a scenic hike that takes you from Djúpalónssandur to the quiet cove of Dritvík.

Arnarstapi & Hellnar: Two scenic coastal villages connected by a short hike along sea walls filled with unique basalt rock formations and birdlife.

Búðir Black Church: Located on the south side of the Snæfellsnes Peninsula, Búðakirkja is a small, 19th-century black wooden church surrounded by a rugged lava field. This iconic, fully operational church is one of Iceland’s most photographed landmarks.

As your adventure winds down, check out these last few stops for a relaxing end to your journey:
Glymur Waterfall: A short, rewarding hike to Iceland’s second tallest waterfall. The trail requires crossing a river on a wooden log bridge, which is only placed during the summer months.

Hvammsvík Hot Springs: Soak in the mineral waters of these oceanside geothermal pools. During World War II, the area was taken over by the Allied forces as their naval headquarters, with the code names “Falcon Crest” and “Falcon Beach.” Today, it’s one of the best hot springs in Iceland, surrounded by untouched nature.

Reykjavík: The End!

If you’re after some true adventure and solitude, you’ll want to check out the Westfjords. This rugged, untouched region offers stunning landscapes where fjords meet the sea in the most dramatic ways. Locals recommend spending 2-3 days here to fully soak in the beauty and isolation of the area.

Highlights of this region include:

Hornstrandir: A top hiking destination, accessible only by boat.

Látrabjarg Cliffs: Famous for their seabird colonies and jaw-dropping views.

Dynjandi Waterfall: A majestic cascading waterfall that’s one of the region’s most iconic sights.

Ísafjörður: A charming town rich in history and surrounded by stunning scenery.

Flateyri & Bolungarvík: Quaint fishing villages offering a glimpse into local life.

Valagil Waterfall: A hidden gem tucked away in the rugged landscape.

Arctic Fox Centre: A fascinating stop to learn about the region’s wildlife.

Museum of Icelandic Sorcery and Witchcraft: Here you can dive into the eerie folklore of the Westfjords.

Hellulaug Hot Spring: A peaceful, natural hot spring perfect for unwinding after a day of exploring.

Iceland’s landscapes are breathtaking, but driving here requires extra preparation due to unpredictable weather and unique road conditions. 
Keep these key tips in mind to stay safe on your self driving tour of Iceland:

Check road and weather conditions: Always check road.is & safetravel.is for real-time road updates and vedur.is for weather forecasts before heading out, especially in winter.

Rent the right vehicle: If you plan to explore Iceland’s highlands or drive on gravel roads, a 4×4 vehicle is essential.

Headlights: It’s mandatory to keep headlights on at all times, even during daylight.

Seatbelts: All passengers must wear seatbelts, and children under 12 are not permitted to ride in the front seat.

Single-Lane Bridges: Iceland has many single-lane bridges. The rule is that the vehicle closer to the bridge has the right of way, but always approach with caution.

Be mindful of speed limits: Speed limits are strictly enforced, and fines for speeding are high. Always adhere to posted limits and adjust your speed for road conditions.

Watch out for sudden weather changes: Icelandic weather can shift rapidly. Be prepared for fog, strong winds, and icy conditions, even in summer.

Avoid off-road driving: It is illegal and can cause significant environmental damage. Stick to marked roads and parking areas.

Keep an eye out for wildlife: Sheep and reindeer can sometimes wander onto the road, especially in rural areas.

Fuel up when possible: Gas stations can be sparse in remote areas, so top up your tank whenever you have the chance.

Carry emergency supplies: Pack warm clothing, snacks, extra water, and a fully charged phone in case of delays or unexpected stops.
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A 10-day self-driving tour of Iceland can be an extraordinary experience to explore the island’s breathtaking landscapes, hidden gems, and natural wonders at your own pace. 
Remember to plan ahead, embrace the unexpected, and get ready for the ultimate road trip through one of the world’s most spectacular destinations!

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