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16 Day Self-drive Tour: The Ring Road with outdoor activities and Wildlife
16-day self-drive itinerary · all-year
This 16 day self-drive tour of the Ring Road is perfect for outdoor enthusiasts and wildlife lovers alike. With ample opportunity to explore and catch a glimpse of some of Iceland's most beloved creatures, this trip is sure to create memories that will last a lifetime.*
This constant self-drive tour of Iceland's iconic attractions offers a healthy balance of adventure and rest, whether you're searching for something to do or simply looking for some rest and relaxation. You will explore the Golden Circle, the stunning South Coast, the isolated Eastern Fjords, and the whale-watching hubs of the North. You’ll get the chance to visit some of Iceland’s most beautiful waterfalls, lagoons, black sand beaches, and canyons. You'll experience the real wildlife of Iceland; puffins, reindeer and if you are lucky, you might even see the arctic fox! This is a perfect trip for those who want to explore Iceland at their own pace and discover all that this incredible country has to offer.
Day 1: Day 1
After arriving at Keflavik International Airport or Reykjavik City, begin your exploration of Reykjavik. Some recommended activities include checking out the Hallgrimskirkja church, taking a dip in one of the many geothermal pools, visiting the National Museum of Iceland, or simply strolling through the quaint streets. In the evening, enjoy a delicious meal at one of the city's many restaurants before heading to your accommodation for the night.
Day 2: Day 2
Start your day by exploring the Reykjanes Peninsula Geopark. Marvel at the ancient lava flows, the Garðskagaviti lighthouse, and the seabirds that make their home here. Don't forget to snap a photo of the Bridge between Continents! Afterwards, continue on to Reykjanesviti lighthouse, Gunnuhver hot springs, and the Krýsuvíkurberg sea cliffs where you might spot some puffins. End your day at the Seltún geothermal area before making your way to your accommodation in the Selfoss area.
Day 3: Day 3
Today, you'll be tackling the Golden Circle of Iceland! First stop is Þingvellir National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and the site of the world's first parliament. Afterwards, head to the Geysir geothermal area to see the Strokkur geyser erupt. Then, it's on to Gullfoss waterfall, one of Iceland's most iconic waterfalls. End your day at the Brúarhlöð gorge and the Kerið crater. Make your way to your accommodation in the Selfoss area for the night.
Day 4: Day 4
Today, you'll be exploring the South Coast of Iceland. Begin your day at Seljalandsfoss waterfall, where you can walk behind the cascading water. Then, it's on to Skógafoss waterfall and the Dyrhólaey promontory where you might spot some puffins. End your day in the town of Vík, where you can enjoy the black sand beaches. Make your way to your accommodation in the Vík area for the night.
Day 5: Day 5
Continue your exploration of the South Coast of Iceland today with a visit to the Fjaðrárgljúfur canyon. Then, it's on to the Skaftáreldahraun lava field, the Skaftafell geopark, and the Vatnajökull National Park. End your day at the Jökulsárlón glacier lagoon and the Diamond Beach. Make your way to your accommodation in the Höfn area for the night.
Day 6: Day 6
Today, you'll be exploring the Eastfjords of Iceland. Begin your day with a visit to the Reindeer Center where you can learn all about these iconic creatures. Then, it's on to the Egilsstaðir area where you can explore the quaint villages and stunning landscapes. Make your way to your accommodation in the Egilsstaðir area for the night.
Day 7: Day 7
Continue your exploration of the Eastfjords of Iceland today with a visit to the Stuðlagil canyon. Then, it's on to the Dettifoss waterfall, the Ásbyrgi canyon, and the Húsavík area where you can go whale watching. Make your way to your accommodation in the Húsavík area for the night.
Day 8: Day 8
Today, you'll be exploring the Mývatn area. Begin your day with a visit to the Hverir mud pools and the Dimmuborgir lava field. Then, it's on to the Skútustaðagígar pseudocraters and the Goðafoss waterfall. End your day in the Akureyri area, where you can explore the town or go hiking in the nearby mountains. Make your way to your accommodation in the Akureyri area for the night.
Day 9: Day 9
Continue your exploration of the Akureyri area today with a visit to the Hofsós village and the Glaumbær farm. Then, it's on to the Hvítserkur rock formation and the Illugastaðir seal watching area. Make your way to your accommodation in the Hvammstangi area for the night.
Day 10: Day 10
Today, you'll be exploring the Westfjords of Iceland. Begin your day with a visit to the Hólmavík area where you can learn about the Icelandic Sorcery & Witchcraft Museum. Then, it's on to the Reykjanes area where you can explore the tiny towns and stunning landscapes. Make your way to your accommodation in the Reykjanes area for the night.
Day 11: Day 11
Continue your exploration of the Westfjords of Iceland today with a visit to the Súðavík arctic fox center. Then, it's on to the Ísafjörður area where you can explore the town or go hiking in the nearby mountains. End your day with a visit to the Bolafjall viewpoint. Make your way to your accommodation in the Ísafjörður area for the night.
Day 12: Day 12
Today, you'll be exploring the tiny towns of the Westfjords. Begin your day with a visit to the Flateyri area. Then, it's on to the Dynjandi waterfall and the Patreksfjörður area. Make your way to your accommodation in the Patreksfjörður area for the night.
Day 13: Day 13
Today, you'll be bird watching at the Látrabjarg sea cliff and exploring the Rauðasandur beach. Make your way to your accommodation in the Patreksfjörður area for the night.
Day 14: Day 14
Today, you'll be exploring the Reykhólar area and searching for the elusive Sea Eagles of Iceland. Make your way to your accommodation in the Borgarnes area for the night.
Day 15: Day 15
Continue your exploration of the Borgarfjörður area today with a visit to the Grábrók crater, the Deildartunguhver hot springs, and the Hraunfossar waterfalls. Then, return to Reykjavik city for your final night in Iceland.
Day 16: Day 16
Depending on your flight schedule, use this day to explore Reykjavik city or Reykjanes peninsula. Your Iceland adventure comes to an end as you return your rental car at Keflavik International Airport.
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